Renowned playback singer and ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas passed away on Monday (February 26) after battling an extended illness. He had been receiving medical care at Breach Candy Hospital and breathed his last at 11 AM. Reports had earlier indicated that he had been diagnosed with cancer a few months ago.

Anup Jalota Confirms Pankaj Udhas’ Battle with Cancer

Anup Jalota, a close associate of the late singer, confirmed the news to ABP News, revealing that Udhas had been battling Pancreatic cancer for the past four months. Expressing grief, Jalota shared, “People have lost Pankaj Udhas, but I have lost a very dear friend today. We were friends for 45 years. We used to spend beautiful evenings together. In those days, Pankaj, me, and Talat Aziz were famous. We would work together.”

Pankaj Udhas’ Passing: A Loss to the Music World

He further adds, “The man who helped so many cancer patients, himself died of cancer. That is life. He had pancreatic cancer. I knew this for the last 5 to 6 months, and he stopped talking to me in the last 2-3 months, so I realized that his health was not okay. I feel very sad that this illness took his life.”

Anup Jalota took to Twitter to express great loss on the demise of the legendary Ghazal singer. He wrote, “Shocking…. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

The family released a statement expressing their grief, stating, “With a heavy heart, we share the news of the demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February due to a prolonged illness.” The final rites for the singer are scheduled to take place on Tuesday (February 27).