Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas passes away

Veteran ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has passed away. He was 72.

His team confirmed that he breathed his last on Monday morning at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai.

He was suffering from prolonged illness and wasn't keeping well for the last few days, reports media.

His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, posted a statement on Instagram confirming his death. "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. Udhas family (sic)", it read.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, February 27, in Mumbai.

Music career

Pankaj Udhas is best known for lending his voice to memorable tracks like 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.

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.