Pankaj Udhas, the renowned ghazal and playback singer, breathed his last on February 26, 2024, at the age of 72. The Udhas family confirmed his demise, citing a prolonged illness as the cause. Pankaj Udhas’ daughter, Nayaab, shared the news on Instagram, expressing the family’s sadness.
The statement read, “With a heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness.”
Fans and well-wishers flooded the comment section with condolences as the news spread. Pankaj Udhas passed away around 11 am at the Breach Candy hospital. His last rites are scheduled for the next day. He is survived by his wife Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, both singers.
Pankaj Udhas was celebrated for his contribution to Indian music, particularly his soulful ghazals. Some of his memorable tracks include “Chitthi Aayi Hai” from the 1986 film “Naam,” “Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai” from the 1998 film “Ek Hi Maqsad,” and “Aaj Phir Tumpe” from the 1988 film “Dayavan.” His ghazal career boasted albums like “Aahat” (1980) and hit tracks such as “Na Kajre Ki Dhaar,” “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein,” “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.”
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Pankaj Udhas had shared his experience of returning to the stage after the pandemic hiatus. Despite regular riyaaz (practice), he admitted feeling nervous due to the lack of exposure to live performances during the pandemic. However, the emotional moment of seeing 6,000 people cheering for him at a concert in Rampur after a two-year gap left him teary-eyed.
Pankaj Udhas’ legacy as a versatile and soul-stirring vocalist will be remembered in the hearts of music lovers across the country. May his soul rest in peace.
