Ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas dies at 72 after prolonged illness

Ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas, whose mellifluous voice enchanted music lovers for generations and gave a pure expression of affection, feelings, lament and longing by his soulful vocals, died in Mumbai after a prolonged sickness on Monday (February 26, 2024).

He was 73.

“With a really heavy coronary heart, we’re saddened to tell you of the unhappy demise of Padma Shri Pankaj Udhas on 26 February because of a prolonged sickness,” learn a press release issued by the Udhas household as quoted by the media.

Pankaj Udhas’ consultant instructed The Indian Express, “Pankaj sir was affected by a prolonged sickness and wasn’t maintaining nicely the previous few days. He died this morning round 11 am at Breach Candy hospital.”

A exceptional singing journey

Born in Jetpur in Gujarat in 1951, Pankaj Udhas began his profession with the discharge of a ghazal album titled Aahat in 1980 and subsequently recorded many hits like Mukarar in 1981, Tarrannum in 1982, Mehfil in 1983, Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall in 1984, Nayaab in 1985 and Aafreen in 1986.

After his success as a ghazal singer, he was invited to seem and sing for a movie by Mahesh Bhatt.

He will probably be remembered for singing evergreen tracks like ‘Chitthi Aayee Hai’ and ‘Chandi Jaisa (*72*) Hai’.

In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award.

Reactions

Indian Minister Anurag Thakur posted on X: “Deeply saddened the information of passing of Pankaj Udhas ji. His profession, spanning greater than 4 a long time, enriched our music business and gifted us with a number of the most memorable and melodious renditions of gazals. His demise is an irreparable loss to our music world.”

“My honest condolences to his household, associates, and followers on this tough time. May his soul relaxation in peace,” he stated.

Singer Anup Jalota wrote on X: “Shocking …. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We prolong our heartfelt condolences to his Family and family members throughout this tough time. .”