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Renowned Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has tragically passed away at the age of 72 after battling a prolonged illness, as confirmed by his family on February 26. The iconic musician, whose mellifluous voice has enchanted audiences for over four decades, breathed his last at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital.
In a statement released by the Udhas family, they expressed profound sadness at the loss of the Padma Shri awardee, stating, "With a heavy heart, we announce the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February due to a prolonged illness."
Pankaj Udhas, who had been battling cancer for the past few months, breathed his last at 11 AM, surrounded by his loved ones. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, also shared the heartbreaking news on social media, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and dignitaries across the nation.
Prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, took to social media to mourn the loss of the musical maestro. PM Modi fondly remembered Udhas as a beacon of Indian music, whose soul-stirring Ghazals resonated across generations.
PM Narendra Modi posted several pictures with Pankaj Udhas on his X handle. His post read, "We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years. His departure leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
His departure leaves… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75
Amit Shah paid tribute to Udhas' mesmerizing voice, stating that his songs touched the hearts of people from all walks of life. The loss of the legendary singer has left a profound void in the world of music, leaving fans and admirers devastated. He wrote, "Pankaj Udhas ji mesmerised many generations with his melodious voice. His ghazals and songs touched the hearts of people of all ages and classes. Today, his demise has left a huge void in the world of music, which will be difficult to fill for a long time. He will always be among us through his songs and ghazals. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and his fans. May God give peace to the departed soul. Om Shanti Shanti." (English Translation).
पंकज उधास जी ने अपनी मधुर आवाज से कई पीढ़ियों को मंत्रमुग्ध किया। उनकी ग़ज़लों और गीतों ने हर उम्र और वर्ग के लोगों के दिलों को छुआ। आज उनके चले जाने से संगीत की दुनिया में एक बड़ी रिक्तता आई है, जिसे लम्बे समय तक भर पाना मुश्किल है। वे अपने गीतों और ग़ज़लों के माध्यम से सदैव…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 26, 2024
Fellow artists, including Sonu Nigam, Anup Jalota, and Bollywood actors Manoj Bajpayee and Manoj Joshi, also expressed their grief at Udhas' passing, remembering him for his unmatched talent and contributions to the world of music.
Sonu Nigam wrote, "One of the most important part of my childhood, is lost today. Shri Pankaj Udhas ji, I will miss you forever. My heart cries knowing that you are no more. Thank you for being there. Om Shanti."
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
Saddening!!! Rest in peace Pankaj udhas ji ! Had the privilege of listening to you and getting mesmerised by the sweet texture of your voice and Sur ! ॐ शान्ति 🙏 उत्तम कलाकार उत्तम इंसान !
— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) February 26, 2024
Pained by the demise of Pankaj Udhas Ji, a legendary figure in the world of music. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. My heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and countless admirers. pic.twitter.com/FsTIbYEWEV
— Manoj Joshi (@actormanojjoshi) February 26, 2024
Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, Pankaj Udhas' musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his family's rich musical heritage. Over the years, he released over 60 solo albums and numerous collaborative projects, establishing himself as a pioneer in bringing Ghazals to the mainstream.
Udhas' legacy as one of India's most beloved Ghazal singers will endure through his timeless melodies, forever etched in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. As the nation mourns the loss of this musical legend, his soulful voice will continue to resonate through the annals of Indian music history. Rest In Peace, Sir.