Renowned Ghazal and Playback Singer Pankaj Udhas Passes Away at 72
The demise of Pankaj Udhas: Celebrated Ghazal and Playback Singer, who passed away at the age of 72. He is widely acclaimed for timeless classics such as “Chitthi Aayi Hai.”
The passing of Pankaj Udhas: Renowned Ghazal and Playback Singer, who breathed his last at the age of 72. The Udhas family confirmed on Monday that his demise was a result of a prolonged illness.
Udhas family’s statement
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Pankaj Udhas’ daughter Nayaab conveyed the news, stating, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on February 26th, 2024, after battling a prolonged illness.”
Following Nayaab’s announcement of the singer’s passing, his fans flooded the comment section with condolences. One fan expressed, “May his soul rest in peace.” Another user offered support, writing, “I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Stay strong and please accept my condolences.” A third user shared, “Sending deepest condolences and prayers.”
According to a family source, he passed away at 11 am at the Breach Candy Hospital. His funeral will take place on Tuesday. Pankaj is survived by his wife Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, who are also renowned singers.
Pankaj Udhas’ career
Pankaj Udhas is renowned for his soulful renditions in iconic songs such as “Chitthi Aayi Hai” from Mahesh Bhatt’s 1986 crime thriller “Naam,” “Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai” from Pravin Bhatt’s 1998 film “Ek Hi Maqsad,” “Aaj Phir Tumpe” from Feroz Khan’s 1988 action thriller “Dayavan,” “Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise” from Lawrence D’Souza’s 1991 romantic film “Saajan,” and “Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata” from Abbas-Mustan’s 1993 revenge thriller “Baazigar,” among others.
Throughout his illustrious career in ghazal music, Pankaj Udhas has released acclaimed albums such as “Aahat” (1980) and delivered mesmerizing tracks like “Na Kajre Ki Dhaar,” “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein,” “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.”
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Pankaj discussed his return to the stage after a hiatus, expressing, “Prior to the pandemic, I used to feel very confident before every concert. However, the pandemic phase was challenging, both mentally and emotionally. Despite maintaining my riyaaz (practice) regularly to prevent rustiness, the lack of exposure to live performances and audiences took a toll. So, when I finally returned to the stage after two years with a concert in Rampur (Uttar Pradesh), I was quite nervous. Yet, as I stepped onto the stage and witnessed 6,000 people cheering for me, tears welled up in my eyes. It was an incredibly emotional moment for me, considering I had been deprived of the stage for so long.”
