Pankaj Udhas, with his soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, became a musical beacon for an entire generation in India. His sweet voice and poignant songs struck a chord with listeners, weaving emotions into every note. From timeless ghazals to contemporary hits, Udhas’s music transcended boundaries, creating a collective soundtrack for love, longing, and life.
However, in a piece of heartbreaking news, Pankaj Udhas has passed away after battling a prolonged illness. He was 72 years old and he took his last breath in Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital.
His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, took to social media to write, “With a very 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.”
His funeral will be held on February 27 in Mumbai.
The Padmashri recipient will be remembered for his ghazals like ‘Chandani Raat Mein’, ‘Na Kajre Ki Dhaar’, ‘Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, ‘Ek Taraf Uska Ghar’ and ‘Thodi Thodi Piya Karo’.
Condolences poured in from several corners of the country as people mourned the loss of one of the finest Ghazal singers the country has known. From musicians to politicians, journalists to other celebrities, many remembered him not just for his songs but also his personality. Here’s a look at some of the messages on social media:
Thank you so much for the music, Sir! #RIP #pankajUdhas pic.twitter.com/g3LFx5NiK2
— Raghu Ram (@tweetfromRaghu) February 26, 2024
Heartbreaking 💔
End of an Era !!Ghazal maestro and #PadmaShri awardee #PankajUdhas ji passes away 🙏🏻
Heartfelt condolences to the family
He will be sorely missed 😔May his pious soul be blessed 🙏🏻
Om Shanti 🙏🏻🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/9No3Bs0VvA— Sonal Goel IAS 🇮🇳 (@sonalgoelias) February 26, 2024
Heartbreaking. .One of the kindest gentlemen in the music business. Was always so warm and encouraging from the first time we met. My deepest condolences to Faridaji and the family. Rest in Peace Pankaj ji. Thank you for the music 💔🙏🏼 #pankajudhas pic.twitter.com/JkMDpnoarN
— Sophie C (@Sophie_Choudry) February 26, 2024
Ghazals won't be same without legends like #JagjitSingh ji and #PankajUdhas ji.
Om Shanti Sir. ❤️🙏🏻
90's era was the best so far. I used to listen to Ghazals, Pop songs, Bhajans and what not…
My personal fav are Aur Ahista..Kijiye Baaten and this legendary ghazal 👇🏻. pic.twitter.com/ql3dEFNYay
— Prapti (@i_m_prapti) February 26, 2024
Shocking 😞…. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/JT7f8tFMUn
— Anup Jalota (@anupjalota) February 26, 2024
Deeply saddened by the loss of Pankaj Udhas ji, a legendary artist whose ghazals resonated with generations. His soulful music touched the hearts of many. Om shanti 🙏#PankajUdhas pic.twitter.com/9CRAYIiJdZ
— Harsh Sanghavi (@sanghaviharsh) February 26, 2024
Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of renowned Ghazal singer #PankajUdhas. His soothing voice and emotive renditions touched the hearts of millions. Legacy of the legendary singer will continue to resonate with fans and music enthusiasts for time to come. My thoughts…
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) February 26, 2024
Few ghazal singers have been as versatile and melodious as Pankaj Udhas. I have special reason to remember my fellow Xavierite because when we won the inter university cricket in 1984-85, our star player and captain @sanjaymanjrekar sang Chandi Jaisa Rang hai tera almost every… pic.twitter.com/Y0B0NLwSVq
— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) February 26, 2024
His melodies were a balm to our aching souls in the 90s. Every song was an artistic wonder. Every lyric brought a lovely feeling of calm. Ahista is one of those gems that will forever bring lovers together. ❤️🩹
Rest in peace. #PankajUdhas pic.twitter.com/BBXnX5UNQz
— Anjali (@MsAnjaliB) February 26, 2024
Chitthi Aayi Hai
This is Not a Song but an Emotion That Made Everyone Cry, Legacy of Pankaj Udhas Sir ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OWvoXweyxs
— Ravisutanjani (@Ravisutanjani) February 26, 2024
Music Legend and Ghazal Singer #PankajUdhas passed away at the age of 72 years due to prolonged illness.
This song among many became a cult song for its emotions and pain in the voice.
Remember listening to this song quit often when leaving away from home & family. pic.twitter.com/p1nXcBAYsX
— Kumar Manish (@kumarmanish9) February 26, 2024
Aaj sach mein mann Udaas ho gaya. Rest in glory Pankaj Udhas sir.
I still remember all your songs.
My mom till date reminds me how when I was in her womb. She used to listen to you on All India Radio and your cassettes on loop and when I was in her belly I used to kick her… pic.twitter.com/tUJLHPKEZ9— Karanvir Sharma (@karanvirsharma9) February 26, 2024
Saddened by the loss of the sophisticated nd highly educated singer, #PankajUdhas. His soulful renditions became instrumental in popularizing Ghazals, contributing significantly in the era of Jagjit Singh. A true legend whose music will forever resonate in our hearts. 🌹 #Beatles pic.twitter.com/1gI3X6V9x7
— Irfan (@irfaniyat) February 26, 2024
His tunes will always remain etched in the hearts of millions, shaping a musical legacy that continues to captivate and inspire. Rest in peace, Sir!