Anupam Kher reflects on fatherly bond with Mahesh Bhatt
Anupam Kher shares heartfelt memories of his 40-year friendship with Mahesh Bhatt, likening their bond to that of a father-son relationship.
Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt fondly reminisced about the making of the timeless song ‘Chitthi Aayi Hai’ from his 1986 classic ‘Naam’, featuring the late ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas. Bhatt revealed that initially, Udhas was hesitant to step into the world of cinema, expressing his concerns as a singer rather than an actor. However, Bhatt, who directed the film, encouraged Udhas to lend his emotive voice to the song, reassuring him of his talent.
Recalling Pankaj Udhas’ apprehension, Mahesh Bhatt shared, “He was nervous, like a newcomer, fearing he wouldn’t meet our expectations. But his rendition surpassed all expectations.” Bhatt acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the song, praising lyricist Anand Bakshi, composers Laxmikant Pyarelal, and Udhas’ soulful rendition, which resonated deeply with music aficionados.
Also Read: Pankaj Udhas revealed Bollywood’s impact on non-film music in The Statesman interview
Bhatt emphasized the song’s enduring appeal, attributing its success to its ability to evoke feelings of longing and nostalgia. He expressed gratitude for having crossed paths with Udhas, acknowledging the song’s pivotal role in elevating Udhas’ stature in the industry.
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Pankaj Udhas, a recipient of the Padma Shri, bid farewell to the world on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of timeless melodies. Born in Jetpur, Gujarat, Udhas was celebrated not only for his ghazals but also for his contributions to the world of cinema. His album ‘Aahat’ in 1980 marked the beginning of his illustrious career, followed by a string of hits that captivated audiences worldwide.
Udhas’ velvety vocals adorned evergreen ghazals like ‘Chitthi Aayi Hai’, ‘Chandani Raat Mein’, ‘Na Kajre Ki Dhaar’, ‘Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein’, ‘Ek Taraf Uska Ghar’, and ‘Thodi Thodi Piya Karo’, etching his name in the annals of music history.
The news of Udhas’ passing sent shockwaves through the music industry, leaving behind a void that will be hard to fill. His demise serves as a poignant reminder of the indelible mark he left on the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.
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