Pankaj Udhas shares fond memories of performing in Chennai

Taking time off before the show began, he said in an interview to DTNext that he has amazing memories of Chennai, as he has been a frequent visitor for over 40 years. When he was in college in around 1974, Pankaj came here for the first time, to perform at a fund-raiser; it was also around the time he started singing. 

“We were supposed to leave for Mumbai by train the day after the concert, but post the show, we got to know that a railway strike had been organised by George Fernandes, when he was President of the All India Railwaymen’s Federation. No trains were going to Mumbai and for nearly three days we were here. Finally, we drove to Bengaluru and took a bus to Mumbai. My stay here was so enjoyable that I can never forget it!” smiles the maestro.

Another reason why he loves Chennai is for the audience’s sound knowledge of music. He explains, “There are parts of India where audiences are really evolved and inclined toward music — even listening is an art, you see. In this city, I feel rasikas are a cut above many because they make an effort to understand music. That’s why language has never been a barrier for me either.” 

Appealing more youngsters to start listening to classical music, Pankaj says, “Indian classical music, Carnatic or Hindustani, is very soulful and poetry-oriented. So, I would urge youngsters not to lose touch with their culture. It even positively benefits your persona and brings out the best in you,” he sums up before getting on stage.