- By Srishti Pandey
- Tue, 27 Feb 2024 09:41 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Pankaj Udhas Death: Renowned ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas passed away in Mumbai on February 26 at the age of 72, following a prolonged illness. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, announced that his last rites will be held on Tuesday, February 27, from 3 to 5 pm at the Hindu Crematorium in Worli, Mumbai.
Nayaab shared the news on Instagram, saying, "With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of his demise on the 26th of February 2024 due to a prolonged illness." She also provided details of the funeral venue and requested the presence of friends, family, and fans to bid farewell to the legendary singer.
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Pankaj Udhas was a prominent figure in the world of music, known for his soulful renditions of ghazals. Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, he rose to fame in the 1980s with albums like Aahat, Mukarar, Tarrannum, and Mehfil. His melodious voice and heartfelt lyrics touched the hearts of millions of listeners, earning him a special place in the music industry.
Apart from his solo albums, Pankaj Udhas also lent his voice to several Bollywood films, including Naam, Saajan, and Mohra, among others. His popular songs such as 'Chitthi Aayi Hai', 'Chandani Raat Mein', 'Na Kajre Ki Dhaar', and 'Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein' continue to be cherished by music lovers across generations.
Singer Anup Jalota, a close friend of Pankaj Udhas, expressed his grief over the loss, highlighting the late singer's contribution to the popularization of ghazals. He recalled their collaborations and the trio of Pankaj Udhas, Talat Aziz, and himself, which became famous for their concerts together. Pankaj Udhas' demise is a significant loss to the music industry, as he played a pivotal role in keeping the tradition of ghazals alive. His soulful voice and timeless melodies will continue to resonate with music lovers for years to come.
#WATCH | Mumbai | On the demise of veteran Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, singer Anup Jalota says, "...People have lost Pankaj Udhas, lost a great Ghazal singer. I have lost my friend...The trio of Pankaj (Udhas), Talat (Aziz), and me was very famous...We did a lot of concerts… pic.twitter.com/HZqoPzfTpg
— ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed grief over the legendary singer's demise.
We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
His departure leaves… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75
Shatrughan Sinha, a Bollywood actor and Indian politician from All India Trinamool Congress took to X and expressed his grief. He wrote, "Grief-stricken by the demise of our very close, dear family friend, well known, most loved, a genius artist, ghazal singer/king #PankajUdhas. He won hearts with his mesmerizing voice & as I said about the late & great #JagjitSingh Pankaj Udhas also could be called rarest of the rare human beings. His best compositions were 'Chitthi Ayee Hai' 'Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein' & 'Ashita Ahista'....His sudden demise comes as a shock. We will miss him, as he will continue to live in our hearts through his everlasting melodies. Heartfelt condolences & prayers to his entire family, friends, fans, well-wishers & loved ones in these tough times. Om Shanti."
Grief-stricken by the demise of our very close, dear family friend, well known, most loved, a genius artist, ghazal singer/king #PankajUdhas. He won hearts with his mesmerizing voice & as I said about the late & great #JagjitSingh Pankaj Udhas also could be called rarest of the… pic.twitter.com/9zkqjf5LVL
— Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) February 27, 2024