Pankaj Udhas has passed away. The legendary singer was 72 years old. The news was shared by his family.
In a statement, they said, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhar on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness.” The news has come as a shock to many. Singer Sonu Nigam was among the first ones to react to his death.
Taking to his Instagram account, Sonu 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.”
Pankaj Udhas (born 17 May 1951) was a Indian ghazal and playback singer known for his works in Hindi cinema, and Indian pop.
He started his career with a release of a ghazal album titled Aahat in 1980 and subsequently recorded many hits like Mukarar in 1981, Tarrannum in 1982, Mehfil in 1983, Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall in 1984, Nayaab in 1985 and Aafreen in 1986.
After his success as a ghazal singer, he was invited to appear and sing for a film by Mahesh Bhatt, Naam. Udhas rose to further fame for singing in the 1986 film Naam, in which his song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” (the letter has arrived) became an instant hit.
He did playback singing for many Hindi films after that. Albums and live concerts around the globe brought him fame as a singer.
In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award.
