On the somber night of July 8, 2024, the legendary singer Usha Uthup's heart was shattered by the untimely passing of her beloved husband, Jani Chacko Uthup. The revered musician succumbed to a sudden cardiac arrest at their Kolkata residence.
Jani, a man of 78 years, was enjoying a tranquil evening at home when he experienced a surge of discomfort. As his family rushed him to the hospital, their hopes flickered with each passing moment. Tragically, his life was extinguished before reaching medical care.
Jani Chacko Uthup, affectionately known as the second husband of Usha Uthup, was a figure shrouded in both mystery and admiration. His story unfolded alongside the meteoric rise of his wife, a Padma Bhushan awardee and an icon of Indian music.
In the early days of Uthup's musical journey, she frequented nightclubs in Calcutta, seeking a platform to showcase her talent. It was amidst the pulsating rhythm of one such evening that she encountered Jani for the first time. As she belted out the Beatles' A Taste of Honey, her voice resonated with an undeniable allure.
At this time, Uthup was bound in matrimony to another man, Ramu, who accompanied her to the fateful performance. As she gazed upon Jani, a spark ignited within her, a spark that would forever alter the course of her life.
In her autobiography, The Queen of Indian Pop, Uthup recounted her initial encounter with Jani. She revealed that he worked for J Thomas & Company, a renowned tea company. Their paths intertwined again when Ramu failed to attend one of her gigs, leaving Jani as her sole escort.
As they dined together, Uthup's heart fluttered with a realization. To her astonishment, Jani confessed his ardent love for her, a sentiment that she reciprocated. Despite being married to Ramu for five years, Uthup's soul yearned for Jani's embrace.
Their union marked a significant chapter in Uthup's life, one filled with love, companionship, and musical collaborations. Jani's presence became an integral part of her journey, as they navigated the complexities of the entertainment industry together.
The passing of Jani Chacko Uthup has left an unfillable void in the life of Usha Uthup and their family. His memory will forever be etched in the annals of Indian music, a testament to the transformative power of love and the enduring legacy of a man who stood by the side of a legendary artist.
