New York, USA - Pankaj Udhas, known as The velvet voice of India, is a Ghazal Icon. He will be felicitated with the "The Special Achievement Award" of the Year" at the Bollywood Music Awards, on Saturday, Nov 1st 2003 at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino, Atlantic City, New Jersey. He will be honored for his popularizing ghazals in India and outside India where people don't understand the language, breaking all the language barriers. Additionally, for bringing all the NRI's closer to their homes and motherland with mega hit songs like "Chithi AYee Hai".

Pankaj Udhas, a singer for the masses and classes has performed for many charities and firmly believes in promoting Indian art and culture. He is known in the western world as the "True Cultural Ambassador" of India. Pankaj Udhas has been associated with Cancer patients Aid Association which was established in 70's where he is involved in rehabilitating and treating cancer patients He has raised money through his concerts and helped them to raise over 20 million Indian Rupees. He is also the president is Parents Thallasemic Unit trust involved in the treatment of the most dreaded genetical blood disorder called Thallasemia. And he has started Khazana a festival of ghazals in aid of these two organizations.

Pankaj Udhas has accomplished much at his youthful age. Already known as an international Ghazal icon, Pankaj Udhas's groundbreaking influence on music can be seen worldwide.  Due to his cross-cultural appeal and wholesome persona, Pankaj Udhas appeals to everyone from children to grandparents, professional women and men to young children trying to find their path in life.

Kamal Dandona, founder of the Bollywood Music Awards, said "Pankaj Udhas was among the first ghazal singers to gain widespread acceptance and fame, and thereby paved the way for men and women of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds to enter the Music world.  Pankaj is a symbol of ghazal music and his music career has enveloped the globe and therefore, is most deserving of the International Special Award.  He is at the pinnacle of the music world and we are thrilled that he is going to be a part of the Bollywood Music Awards".

The Bollywood Music Awards, an event of international stature, will honor the outstanding achievements of Indian music makers and artists during the prior year.