Mumbai, February 26, 2024 – Pankaj Udhas, the legendary ghazal and playback singer, breathed his last today at the age of 72 after a valiant struggle against pancreatic cancer. The poignant melodies he lent his voice to resonated deeply with audiences across generations. His demise marks the end of an era in Indian music, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.
Born in 1951 in Jetpur, Gujarat, Udhas hailed from a family deeply rooted in a love for music. Under the guidance of his father, who played the dilruba, and alongside his brothers Manhar and Nirmal, Udhas embarked on a musical journey that would eventually captivate the hearts of millions.
Udhas’s foray into the world of music began early, as he commenced learning tabla at the Sangeet Natya Akademi in Rajkot at the tender age of 12. It was during this time that his inclination towards vocal classical music became evident. Under the tutelage of Master Navrang Nagpurkar, a distinguished vocalist from the Bhendi Bazaar gharana, Udhas honed his skills, paving the way for his remarkable career.
Despite facing initial challenges in the competitive realm of playback singing, Udhas persevered, fueled by his passion for ghazals. His breakthrough came with the release of his first ghazal album, “Aahat,” in 1980. Subsequent albums, including the critically acclaimed “Nayaab” in 1985, further solidified his position as a maestro in the realm of ghazal.
However, it was his rendition of “Chitthi Aayi Hai” for Mahesh Bhatt’s “Naam” in 1986 that propelled Udhas to unparalleled heights of fame. The soul-stirring lyrics penned by Anand Bakshi struck a chord with audiences worldwide, cementing Udhas’s status as an icon in the world of music.
Over the years, Udhas’s mellifluous voice graced numerous Bollywood hits, including “Saajan” and “Mohra,” captivating listeners with his emotive delivery. His contributions to Indian music were duly recognized, culminating in the prestigious Padma Shri award conferred upon him in 2006.
Beyond his musical prowess, Udhas was a beacon of philanthropy, using his platform to raise awareness and support charitable causes. His passion for music extended beyond the realms of performance, as he founded the acclaimed ghazal festival, Khazana, providing a platform for budding talent to showcase their artistry.
Udhas’s untimely demise has left a void in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. Tributes from dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, underscore the profound impact of his artistry on Indian culture. His songs, immortalized in the annals of music history, will continue to resonate for generations to come.
As the curtains fall on Pankaj Udhas’s illustrious career, his melodies will endure as a timeless testament to the power of music to transcend barriers and unite hearts in shared emotion. The world mourns the loss of a luminary whose voice will echo eternally in the corridors of musical greatness.
The final rites for Pankaj Udhas will be held tomorrow, as family, friends, and fans bid farewell to a beloved maestro whose legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.