Pankaj Udhas, a popular Indian ghazal singer, died after a protracted illness, his family revealed on February 26. He was 72. The family announced in an official statement, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhar on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness.” Singer Sonu Nigam shared the news of Pankaj Udhas’ passing on Instagram, writing, “One of the most important parts of my childhood is lost today.” Shri Pankaj Udhas ji, I’ll miss you forever. My heart cries because you are no longer among us. Thank you for being there. “Om Shanti.”
Pankaj Udhas’ early career included singing for Hindi films and offering his voice to Indian pop
Udhas, born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, began his career with the release of the ghazal album “Aahat” in 1980. He quickly became linked with ghazal music in India. In Bollywood, the ghazal master sang the legendary song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” for the film “Naam,” starring Sanjay Dutt. Pankaj has recorded several CDs and performed in countless live shows. He received multiple significant accolades, including the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Ghazal Singing. He was also honored with India’s fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri.
His elder brother, Manhar Udhas, was already a successful playback singer, paving the way for Pankaj’s entry into the music industry. Udhas’ early career included singing for Hindi films and offering his voice to Indian pop. However, his true calling was in the arena of ghazals, a type of Urdu poetry set to melody. He will be remembered for his timeless ghazals “Chandani Raat Mein”, “Na Kajre Ki Dhaar”, “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein”, “Ek Taraf Uska Ghar” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo”. According to reports, he died around 11 am at the Breach Candy hospital. His last rites will be held on February 27. Pankaj is survived by his wife Farida, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, who are also singers.