Renowned ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, a stalwart in the world of Indian music, breathed his last on February 26 at the age of 72. The news of his demise was confirmed by his family in a statement, citing a prolonged illness as the cause. The Padmashri awardee, known for his soulful renditions, passed away at 11 AM at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment for cancer in recent months.
In a somber statement, the Udhas family expressed their sorrow: “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February due to a prolonged illness.”
Pankaj Udhas’ daughter, Nayaab, also shared the heartbreaking news on social media.
The last rites of the ghazal maestro are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 27.
A Journey Through Ghazals: Pankaj Udhas’ Musical Legacy
Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, Pankaj Udhas emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of ghazals, enchanting audiences for over four decades. His musical roots ran deep, with his elder brother, Manhar Udhas, already a successful playback singer in Bollywood.
Udhas initially ventured into Hindi film songs and Indian pop, but it was in ghazals that he found his true calling. His debut ghazal album, “Aahat,” released in 1980, marked the beginning of a prolific career that saw him produce over 60 solo albums and collaborate on numerous projects.
Known for his mellifluous voice and profound understanding of ghazal poetry, Udhas played a pivotal role in bringing ghazals into the mainstream. Hits like “Chitthi Aai Hai” from the film “Naam” (1986) and “Aa Gale Lag Ja” established him as a household name, transcending the genre’s traditional audience.
Pankaj Udhas’ contributions were acknowledged with prestigious awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Ghazal Singing, and the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
Beyond his musical prowess, Udhas was celebrated for his humility and down-to-earth personality. His legacy lives on, with his voice forever etched in the hearts of ghazal lovers worldwide.
