The legendary singer received the Padma Bhushan Award on Monday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
"For me, this is the biggest moment of my life... to be recognized and appreciated by your country and, of course, by your government." - Usha Uthup.
Finally! After decades of reigning supreme in India's music scene, the legendary Usha Uthup has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan. She received the award on Monday (April 22) from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremonial function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The recognition was certainly long due; however, it was an immensely satisfying moment for her countless fans across the world!
The veteran singer looked gorgeous as always during the event. She was seen in her signature Kanjeevaram saree, gajra, and huge bindi. Besides her, actor Mithun Chakraborty, Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik, and industrialist Sitaram Jindal among others were also honored with the award.
#WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Bhushan upon singer Usha Uthup in the field of Arts. pic.twitter.com/ttxFrCO6A8
— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024
(Credit: ANI)
Well, Usha Ji (as she is fondly called) has always been a favorite of music lovers thanks to her distinctive voice and phenomenal versatility. Especially from the 60s to the 90s, she was an unstoppable force in the Hindi music industry, winning over the hearts of one and all with her pop songs. Whether it's soulful melodies or peppy numbers, she can do both with equal fineness.
#WATCH | On receiving the Padma Bhushan award, Singer Usha Uthup says, "I am happy. This is the biggest moment of my life to be recognized by your country and government. It is a great thing that ordinary people like me have been selected for this award...'' pic.twitter.com/Vz7GsjkSuB
— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024
(Credit: ANI)
As we celebrate the singer's remarkable achievement, let's revisit some of her best songs that showcase her insane talent.
Think about Usha Uthup, and the first song to come to your mind would definitely be "Ramba Ho Ho". And without an iota of doubt, it's the best of all Usha Uthup - Bappi Lahiri collaborations. The song was featured in the 1991 film 'Armaan', and was an instant hit!
(Credit: Goldmines Gaane Sune Ansune)
Precisely, what works so well in the song is its electrifying rhythm that hits the right chords in our hearts. Usha Ji's powerful voice makes it appeal to all kinds of audiences. Even today, we cannot help but groove to its tune.
Featured in the Mithun Chakraborty starrer 'Disco Dancer', "Koi Yahan Aha" is another party anthem that has captivated music lovers for decades. The song is a celebration of life and pulls us completely into its world. And Usha Ji's vocals here effortlessly convey a range of emotions that stay in our minds for a long.
"Hari Om Hari" is another iconic track of Usha Ji that resonates with listeners from all backgrounds. Featured in the 1980 film 'PyaaraDushman', the peppy number is an excellent fusion of rock, disco, and Indian folk music. The vibrant instrumentation, coupled with the singer’s energetic vocals, brings people together and makes them groove. For over four decades now, it has been dominating the dance floors across occasions.
(Credit: Saregama Music)
There's no way we write on Usha Uthup's best songs and miss "Darling". Featured in Vishal Bhardwaj's film '7 KhoonMaaf', and picturized on Priyanka Chopra, the song perfectly captures the essence of desire and longing, complementing the film's narrative. It explores various themes and leaves a lasting impact on our minds. Usha Ji's distinctive vocals, and obviously Priyanka Chopra's charm on the screen, make the song stand out and how!
(Credit: SonyMusicIndiaVEVO)
The list obviously doesn't end here. Besides these, it also includes "One Two Cha ChaCha", " Ami SottiBolchhi", "Uri Uri Baba", etc.
