Pankaj Udhas. Photo : Collected
Pankaj Udhas, the subcontinent’s one of the most popular ghazal and playback singers, breathed his last at 72 on Monday (26 February).
The Padma Shri-famed singer’s family said that he died around 11 am at the Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai, reported by the Indian media outlets.
Pankaj Udhas' daughter Nayaab Udhas shared a statement on Instagram, stating, “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 admirers of the eminent singer flooded social media with condolences after the news of his passing. His family sources informed Indian media outlets that his final rites will be held on Tuesday.
Pankaj Udhas was born in Jetpur, Gujarat on May 17, 1951 to Keshubhai Udhas and Jituben Udhas.
His most well-known songs are "Chitthi Aayi Hai" from Mahesh Bhatt's 1986 crime thriller "Naam," "Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera" 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 other notable tracks.
His ghazal career includes reputed albums like ‘Aahat’ (1980) and tracks like “Na Kajre Ki Dhaar,” “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein,” “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo.” He is also widely revered by the listeners of Bengal for his famous Bangla ghazals and modern songs including “Bhalobasha,” “Chokh Tar Chorabali,” “Ami Tomay Niye” and more, from the 1989 album ‘Bhalobasha.’
For his majestic contribution to the art of Ghazal and the Indian music industry, Pankaj Udhas received the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award of the Republic of India, in 2006.
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