At 87 years old, Didar Singh Pardesi remains a cherished icon in the realm of Punjabi music, his legacy enriched by decades of soulful performances and heartfelt connections with legends of the industry. Settled in London, Pardesi reflects on a career marked by memorable encounters and enduring influence.
One of the most treasured moments in Pardesi’s illustrious career occurred when his idol, the legendary Mohammad Rafi, took to the stage and embraced him after hearing his rendition. “He was adorable and so affectionate. I was left entirely speechless. He not only appreciated my singing but showered a big bundle of blessings upon me,” Pardesi recalls with emotion. This encounter earned him the affectionate nickname, the “Rafi of East Africa,” a title that has stayed with him throughout his journey.
Born in 1937 in Pattar Kalan village, Jalandhar, Pardesi faced early adversity with the loss of his mother at the tender age of two. Raised by his grandmother, he moved to Kenya at 14 to join his father, who had emigrated in search of better opportunities. In Kenya, Pardesi balanced his passion for music with a career in education, serving as a government school teacher and eventually retiring as a headmaster after 37 years before relocating to the United Kingdom.
Pardesi’s musical journey began at age five, performing at religious gatherings in his village gurdwara. His move to Kenya did not dim his passion; instead, it fueled his dedication to Punjabi music, leading to numerous stage performances and radio broadcasts. His connection to Punjab remained strong, frequently performing for Jalandhar Doordarshan and Akashwani Radio during visits to India.
Throughout his career, Pardesi has brought to life the literary works of renowned Punjabi poets such as Shiv Batalvi, Prof Mohan Singh, Sohan Singh Josh, and Surjit Patar. His rendition of “Raat chaanani main turan te mera naal turey parchavaan ni jindey meriye” became particularly iconic, cementing his status in the Punjabi music scene. His discography boasts several well-received albums, including “Ambi Da Boota,” “Kach Da Glass,” “Hasratyein,” and “Pyasian Roohan.”
In 1969, Pardesi achieved a milestone as the first Asian singer recorded by Phillips Record Company in East Africa. This breakthrough opened doors to Bollywood, where he contributed his vocal talents to Hindi films such as “Do Shikari,” “Anjana Safar,” and “Mehmaan.” During this period, Pardesi had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed artists like Asha Bhosle, Hemlata, and Meenu Purushottam, under the lyrical guidance of Sahir Ludhianvi and musical compositions by Ravi and Chitragupt.
Despite opportunities to advance his career in Bombay, Pardesi chose to prioritize his job security and family responsibilities, opting to return to East Africa. This decision, he reflects, was influenced by the encouragement from Sahir Ludhianvi, who had advised him to pursue greater fortunes in the bustling city.
Another poignant memory for Pardesi is his interaction with the legendary sarod maestro Ustaad Ali Akbar Khan. After a moving performance of “Heer Waris Shah,” Khan bestowed upon him a diamond ring and gold buttons from his shirt, praising Pardesi’s dedication to his mother tongue and folk music. “These words still resound in my ears and I consider them as priceless and eternally unforgettable,” Pardesi shares.
Despite his many achievements, Pardesi voices concern over the current state of Punjabi music. He laments that modern artists often prioritize commercial success over the preservation of cultural values and traditional folk music. “The modern Punjabi singers do not exhibit any responsibility towards their mother tongue and for their age-old folk music. They are merciless businessmen,” he asserts.
As Pardesi continues to reside in London, his contributions to Punjabi music remain a testament to his talent and dedication. His story is not just one of personal success but also a reflection of the rich cultural tapestry of Punjab. Recognizing his invaluable contributions, many believe it is high time for the Punjab government to honor this veteran artist, ensuring that his legacy inspires future generations.
