There's a bunch of sad news pouring in today. We lost yet another ghazal maestro and legendary singer,
Pankaj Udhas, to prolonged illness. The news of the singer's death comes in on Monday, February 26, as his family issues a statement on social media. He was 73 years old.
His family confirmed the sad news and issued a statement on social media. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, took to Instagram and wrote, 'With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padma Shri Pankaj Udhas on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness. Udhas family.'
However, the cause of his death is still unclear. According to the statement, the Chithi Aayi Hai singer has been suffering from a
prolonged illness for quite some time now. He is survived by his wife and two children, Nayaab Udhas and Reva Udhas.
He was known for some popular hit songs like Chitthi Aayi Hai, Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera, and Na Kajre Ki Dhar, among others. He became a household name by dominating the world of ghazals.
More about Ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas
The
Indian ghazal singer was born on May 17, 1951, in Saurashtra, Gujarat. He was highly celebrated for his soulful ghazal renditions. Udhas garnered fame and prominence in the 1980s and 1990s.
His soulful voice and emotive performances made him a popular ghazal maestro in India and overseas. Fans from across countries would come to attend his concerts.
Pankja Udhas married airhostess Farida on February 11, 1982. They dated for three years and tied the knot later. The singer called his wife his lucky mascot and a wonder woman.
In an old interview, the Aahista singer opened up about how their families were resistant to their relationship due to cast issues. Farida is a Parsi, while Udhas comes from a family of landlords in Gujarat.
Recalling how he convinced his parents, Pankaj said, "I come from a family of landlords in Gujarat. Farida comes from a
traditional Parsi family. So there was resistance from both sides. But I wanted to marry only with our parents' blessings. I decided to meet her fathermdasha retired police officer possessing a licensed gun! He reluctantly agreed, saying, 'If you think you can be happy, then go ahead!' We got married on February 11, 1982."
He was one of the first Indian ghazal singers to perform at the
Royal Albert Hall in London. Recalling the experience, Udhas said, "In 1984, I sang, 'Chandi jaisa ang hai tera'. I dedicate it to Farida."
Radio City extends its heartfelt condolences to the singer's friends and family. Rest in peace, Pankaj Udhas. You will be missed.
