On a stage that has witnessed some of the most soul-stirring voices in Indian music, Sonu Nigam is set to bring his own touch of timeless melody to the Silver Jubilee edition of Khazana – A Festival of Ghazals.Known for Bollywood hits like Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Suraj Hua Maddham and Main Agar Kahoon, Sonu has also won admiration for his ghazal renditions Hasrat Bhari Nazar, Kuchh Dil Ne Kaha and others, where his nuanced vocals and emotional depth capture the spirit of the genre. Reflecting on his association with Pankaj Udhas and his participation in the milestone edition, Sonu said, “Pankaj ji was a part of my growing up years. I would listen to his songs and I knew not just his ghazals, but every musical note in them by heart. I was sad when he departed. Pankaj ji was a very good person. Being a great artist, and also such a wonderful human being is a rare combination,” he said.Calling the festival much more than a musical event, he added, “Khazana is much more than a music festival. It is a celebration of compassion, humanity and the healing power of music. It is an honour to be a part of the 25th edition and pay tribute while remembering the invaluable legacy of Pankaj ji. I am looking forward to sharing an unforgettable musical evening with the audience for a cause that truly touches every heart.”Known for his vocal range, emotional intensity and ability to move effortlessly between classical, ghazal and contemporary music, Sonu’s appearance at the festival will serve as a heartfelt tribute to the rich legacy of melody that Khazana has nurtured over the past quarter century.Founded by the late Padma Bhushan awardee Pankaj Udhas along with his close friends Anup Jalota and Talat Aziz, Khazana has become synonymous with soulful music and meaningful philanthropy. Since its inception, the festival has brought together some of India’s finest musicians while supporting healthcare initiatives for those in need.This year’s Silver Jubilee edition promises an impressive line-up featuring Anup Jalota, Hariharan, Vishal Bhardwaj and Rekha Bhardwaj, Javed Ali, Sudeep Banerji, Madhubanti Bagchi, Sunil Mungee, Aleena Bharti and Tejas Gambhir, with Nihira Joshi appearing as the guest artist. The two-day celebration will be hosted by Anup Soni and Rakshanda Khan.
