Legendary Indian singer Pankaj Udhas passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged illness. His daughter confirmed his death on Instagram.
“With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padma Shri Pankaj Udhas on 26 February due to a prolonged illness,” read a statement from the Udhas family.
Udhas, known for his contributions as a playback singer in Hindi cinema with notable films like “Naam,” “Saajan,” and “Mohra,” passed away at approximately 11 am at Breach Candy hospital, as reported by the news agency PTI, citing a source from the family.
Apart from that, the legendary singer has performed in concerts throughout the world. His last rites will be performed on Tuesday. The singer’s fans and followers are expressing condolence for his demise.
A fan wrote, “May his soul rest in peace.” “I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, stay strong and please accept my condolences,” another user wrote. “Deepest Condolences and Prayers,” another user posted.
Read more: WhatsApp revolutionizing animated stickers
Udhas’s impact stretches beyond the realm of music, transcending him from merely a singer to a masterful narrator, intricately crafting tales of love, anguish, and desire through his soul-stirring ghazals. His imprint on the Indian musical landscape was profound, firmly establishing ghazals as an indispensable element of the nation’s cultural identity.
Timeless melodies like ‘Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera’ and ‘Ghunghroo Toot Gaye’ serve as enduring testaments to Udhas’s unparalleled ability to evoke profound sentiments with his smooth, captivating voice.
Born on April 17, 1951, in Savarkundla, Gujarat, Udhas hailed from a family steeped in musical heritage, with his elder brother, Manhar Udhas, also carving a niche as a successful Hindi playback singer. After relocating to Mumbai and completing his education at St. Xavier’s College, Pankaj rose to prominence with his rendition of ‘Chitthi Aayee Hai’ from the film Naam (1986).