Pankaj Udhas’ releases his new album Khamoshi ki Awaaz

Pankaj Udhas

By Kanika Rajani

Pankaj Udhas who is known for his soft, melodious voice, released his latest album titled Khamoshi Ki Awaaz in Mumbai. “This album lives up to its name. I’ve been recording music for over 35 years and have realised there is too much noise around us,” says Udhas as he describes the silence one finds in nature.
“You’ll probably hear a bird chirp or the distant sound of a stream flowing. That sound is refreshing; neither does it startle you nor does it take you off your guard. Silence too has a sound and can be enjoyed. This inspired me to work on a project where the mood of the album is very peaceful. I wanted to create something which people would enjoy listening to.”
The album consists of six ghazals by Mirza Ghalib, Ahmed Faraz, Parveen Shakir and Jigar Muradabadi and a nazm. “I have sung two ghazals witten by celebrated poets Faraz and Shakir.” Khamoshi… also consists of Ghalib’s work, Koi umeed bar nahin aati, koi soorat nazar aati, “None of the well known artists have sung that ghazal,” says Udhas.
While ghazals are specifically characteristic to the Indian sub-continent, the album has also used western instruments like the violin and piano. “The most important part of any song is the harmony and the basic chord structure is used to support a song. For the interludes and solo pieces we’ve used the sarangi, bamboo flute and tabla which is an Indian percussion. These instruments highlight the raga based compositions,” says Udhas.
Sameer Nichani who has worked with music director Pritam has produced and arranged the album. “The current trend of ghazals is different from mainstream music. Sameer brought in the contemporary element, but the idea was to stick to the theme,” explains Udhas.
The album was launched last week with a live performance by the singer. The ticket sales will be donated as charity to Ramakrishna Sewa Sadan for treatment of cancer patients. Udhas has been associated with the Cancer Patients Aid Association since he lost his father to cancer in 1981. On November 29, Udhas will perform at the Nehru Center in Mumbai at the Ghazal Harmony concert sharing the stage with six new ghazal singers.