📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
Usha Uthup, the renowned Indian singer, recently faced the loss of her second husband, Jani Chacko Uthup, who succumbed to a cardiac arrest at the age of 78 in Kolkata. The couple, who shared a private life together, has a unique love story that goes beyond the ordinary. Jani’s passing has left a void in Usha’s life, but it has also shed light on the remarkable journey of their relationship.
Born in 1946, Jani Chacko Uthup was the son of Brigadier CC Uthup and belonged to a Syrian Christian family in Kottayam. After completing his schooling in Chennai, Jani moved to Kolkata in search of work. It was in 1969, at the iconic nightclub Trincas in Kolkata, that he crossed paths with the legendary singer Usha Uthup during one of her performances.
Jani Chacko Uthup was not just a companion to Usha but also a prominent figure in India’s tea industry. He played a significant role in the country’s tea plantation sector, dating back to 1967. Jani’s expertise in tea tasting and his contributions to companies like J Thomas & Co. were commendable, showcasing his deep-rooted connection to the industry.
The love story of Usha Uthup and Jani Chacko Uthup unfolded amidst Usha’s first marriage to Ramu. Despite the complexities of their situation, their bond grew stronger over time, eventually leading to their decision to get married after Usha’s separation from her first husband. Their union was regarded as a tale of enduring romance during that period, as highlighted in Vikas Kumar Jha’s book ‘The Queen of Indian Pop: The Authorised Biography of Usha Uthup’.
Usha Uthup, known for her iconic contributions to Bollywood music since the 1970s, was recently honored with the Padma Bhushan by the Indian government. Her remarkable journey in the world of music and entertainment, coupled with the remarkable love story she shared with Jani Chacko, continues to inspire many.
The passing of Jani Chacko Uthup may have brought sorrow, but it has also illuminated the extraordinary bond between him and Usha Uthup, showcasing a love story that defied norms and stood the test of time.