This is an event that ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has been planning probably since the last few months. For, today and tomorrow, ten other singers and he will present to witness Khazana, at the Oberoi, Mumbai - a show in which they lend their voices to raise funds for cancer and thalassemic patients. 

While the stage is set for the rich rendition, the singers themselves look forward to it as it marks a sort of meeting place them as friends. Pankaj Udhas, who pioneered the concept of the show says, “It’s more like a celebration really, Talat Anup (Jalota) and I are dear friends and we are looking forward to performing together. Unlike other areas of the entertainment industry, Khazana is one arena that is free from jealousy and one-upmanship. And we have a dedicated audience that comes every year too,” he says. 

As is the practice every year a tribute is paid to an artist at Khazana and this year the singers it is yesteryear singer Begum Akhtar who shall be in foucs as it coincides with the celebration of her birth centenary which falls this year too. “I am an absolute fan of hers. I think she was the pioneer in the field of ghazals and inspired us as youngsters,” reveals Pankaj. Fellow singer Talat Aziz shall be singing Vo Jo Ham Me Tum Me Qaraar Tha Tumhe Yaad Ho Ke Na Yaad Ho, by Momin Khan. “He’s a classic poet and contemporary of Mirza Ghalib and one of my favourites,” informs Aziz. “It is also nice that we can bring forth our ghazals to the audiences. The genre of song is immemorial. While the presentation of ghazalas hasn’t changed, the soul remains the same.” 

Singer Penaz Masani who is also an active social worker says she is pleased to be part of the show as it is provides an avenue to help the sick and underprivileged. “You know, more then success and reaching new heights, it’s important to do your bit for society,” she says.

The singers are not charging any fee for their performances. “We have already attained name and fame,” smiles Pankaj, “This cause is much above all that, it must reach out to people’s hearts and minds.”