MUMBAI (Diya TV) — Renowned ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas, who enchanted audiences with his soulful melodies, was cremated with state honors in Mumbai. The Padma Shri awardee, who passed away at the age of 72 after battling a prolonged illness, bid farewell to a life dedicated to music.
Pankaj Udhas, born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, hailed from a musical family. His father, Manohar Udhas, was a renowned Gujarati folk singer, and his elder brother, Nirmal Udhas, also ventured into the world of ghazals. Inspired by his familial legacy, Pankaj embarked on his musical journey in the early 1970s, eventually rising to prominence with his debut album “Aahat” in 1980.
The legendary singer’s passing on Monday, February 26, left a void in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Admitted to Breach Candy Hospital due to his deteriorating health, Udhas breathed his last at 11 a.m., surrounded by his loved ones.
The news of Udhas’s demise was confirmed by his daughter, Nayaab, who shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram, informing fans of his peaceful departure. Shortly after, condolences poured in from celebrities across various industries, with luminaries like Vidya Balan, Zakir Hussain, and Sunil Gavaskar attending his last rites to pay their respects.
The singer’s mortal remains were kept at his Mumbai residence for final darshan before his cremation at the Worli Hindu Crematorium. A steady stream of mourners, including Bollywood actors, singers, and dignitaries, gathered to bid farewell to the beloved artist.
From Sonu Nigam to Anup Jalota, Udhas’s contemporaries and fans came together to honor his memory and celebrate his musical legacy. Singers like Roop Kumar Rathod and Hariharan joined the somber gathering, reminiscing about the timeless melodies Udhas gifted the world.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pankaj Udhas captivated audiences with poignant ghazals like “Chitthi Aayi Hai,” “Chandi Jaisa Rang Tera,” and “Thodi Thodi Piya Karo,” earning him accolades and adoration from fans worldwide. His contribution to the world of music remains etched in the hearts of generations, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future artists for years to come.
