Ghazal Maestro Pankaj Udhas Passes Away; PM Modi Mourns Loss
The Indian music fraternity is in mourning as the legendary ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas breathed his last on February 26, 2024, after battling a prolonged illness.
The soulful melodies that flowed from his golden voice touched hearts across generations. Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent their deepest sympathies on the passing of this musical icon.
Pankaj Udhas’ Death
At the age of 72, veteran vocalist Pankaj Udhas passed away. His team verified that he passed away at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai early on February 26.
“Pankaj Sir had been unwell for the last few days due to a protracted sickness. At about 11 a.m. this morning, he passed away at Breach Candy Hospital.”
Renowned Indian ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has enthralled listeners for decades with his beautiful interpretations. He was born in Gujarat on May 17, 1951, and started his musical career at an early age.
He became well-known in the 1980s and 1990s. In 2006, he received the Padma Shri award as a mark of honour.
Several popular songs, including “Chitthi Aayi Hai,” “Aur Ahista,” and “Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise,” have been released by Pankaj Udhas. His passing has created a gap in the music industry.
Internet Remembers His Soulful Melodies
Mumbai will host his funeral on Tuesday, February 27. Nayaab Udhas, his daughter, confirmed his passing in an Instagram post.
All age groups find his soulful tunes appealing. Users on X have been sharing videos of the master Ghazal performer at different gigs.
A Beacon Of Indian Music
Pankaj Udhas, born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat, carved a niche for himself in the world of ghazals. His renditions resonated with listeners, evoking a range of emotions. Songs like ‘Chitthi Aayi Hai,’ ‘Aur Ahista,’ and ‘Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise’ became timeless classics, etching his name in the annals of Indian music history.
Modi’s Tribute
PM Narendra Modi took to his social media handle to pay homage to the departed maestro. He shared several pictures of himself with Pankaj Udhas, reminiscing their interactions over the years. His heartfelt 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… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
Amit Shah’s Tribute
Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his grief at the loss of this musical virtuoso. In his tribute, he said:
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 (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) February 26, 2024
A Legacy Lives On
Pankaj Udhas’ legacy lives on through his timeless compositions. His soul-stirring music will continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of ghazals to connect hearts and souls.
