Ghazal legend Pankaj Udhas, 72, no more

New Delhi: Pankaj Udhas, the renowned ghazal singer who gave hit after hit and has left an indelible mark on music lovers, died on Monday due to prolonged illness. He was 72.

“With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness,” his daughter Nayaab wrote in an Instagram post.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hailing Udhas for his contributions, said in a post on X: “He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years. His departure leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Udhas was known for his velvety renditions of love songs, especially those of heartbreak, including popular numbers ‘Chitthi Ayee Hai’ and ‘Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein’, besides renditions as a playback singer in Hindi films, including ‘Dayavan’, ‘Naam’, ‘Saajan’ and ‘Mohra’.

He died around 11 am at the Breach Candy Hospital. “This is not only a personal loss, but the whole nation has lost a prolific singer and a great human being,” Breach Candy Hospital Trust said in a note.

The last rites of the singer will be held on Tuesday. He is survived by his wife Farida and daughters Reva and Nayaab.