Over the last thirty years, he has been sincerely contributing in popularizing various forms of Urdu poetry like ghazals, rubayees and nazms among non-Urdu audiences all over India and abroad. His albums represent a unique amalgam of traditional rich music and decent lyrics which appeal to contemporary listeners. The singer has lent his voice to several popular songs for Hindi films as well. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to ghazals, several prestigious institutions and organizations all over the world have conferred on Pankaj Udhas grand awards and felicitations; the most prestigious among them “Padma Shri” award in March 2006 by President of India. The program is for Indian nationals and invitation cards are available at the Indian Embassy free of charge. Those interested in attending the event have been requested to contact the mission with valid iqama copies along with their contact numbers and collect their passes January 27 and 28 between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. According to embassy sources, the cards will be issued on a first-come-first-served basis. Children below 12 years are not allowed. A maximum of four persons per application will be considered. Applications received by fax or email will not be entertained, the sources said.