Noted ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas breathed his last today (26th February) at Breach Candy Hospital in Bombay. He had been suffering from cancer. He was 72. His family released a statement to inform the world about his demise. The statement read: “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.” His last rites will be performed tomorrow (27th).
Pankaj Udhas’ most popular film song was undoubtedly Chitthi aayi hai aayi hai chitthi aayi hai from Naam. He released his first ghazal album, Aahat, in 1980. From there began a career which was adorned with hit songs and ghazals, name and fame, awards and rewards. In all, he had 60 solo albums to his credit, besides various collaborative projects. His mellifluous voice enthralled millions the world over.
He had been awarded the Padma Shri in 2006. Pankaj Udhas was a very humble and down-to-earth person.