After the news of Ameen Sayani‘s passing, another startling news came about the death of renowned Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas.
Known for his works in Hindi cinema and Indian pop, Pankaj Udhas started his career in 1980 with the release of his album, Aahat. He recorded several hits like Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), and Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall (1984), among others. After success as a ghazal singer, he appeared and sang for Mahesh Bhatt’s Naam. In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award.
He passed away at the age of 72 due to prolonged illness. His family confirmed the news of his passing.
Pankaj Udhas Death: Ghazal singer dies from prolonged illness
On Monday, February 26, the Udhas family confirmed the Ghazal singer’s death due to cancer. As per a family source, Pankaj Udhas died around 11 am at the Breach Candy Hospital at the age of 72.
Taking to social media, Pankaj Udhas’ daughter Nayaab shared a statement. The post read, “With a 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.”
In an interview back in 2022, Pankaj Udhas talked about getting back on stage after a hiatus. He said, “Before the pandemic, there used to be a lot of confidence in me before any concert. But the pandemic phase was tough, even psychologically. Though I did my riyaaz regularly and tried to keep up and not get rusted. There was a lack of exposure to the stage and audience. So, when I got back on stage after two years with a concert in Rampur (Uttar Pradesh), I was really nervous. But when I went up on stage and saw 6,000 people cheering for me, I had tears in my eyes. It was a very emotional moment, as I was deprived of the stage for so long.”
His last rites will be held on Tuesday, February 27. He is survived by his wife, Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers, Nirmal and Manhar Udhas.
