The last rites of the legendary ghazal maestro, Pankaj Udhas, who passed away after battling a prolonged illness, are set to take place today. Nayaab Udhas, his daughter, took to Instagram to share the somber news with fans and followers.
Pankaj Udhas, the voice behind timeless classics such as “Chitthi Aayi Hai” and “Chandani Raat Mein,” breathed his last in Mumbai on Monday at the age of 72. According to reports from the PTI news agency, the singer departed at around 11 am at the Breach Candy Hospital.
Expressing their grief, Nayaab Udhas penned a heartfelt message on Instagram, announcing the details of her father’s funeral arrangements. The solemn ceremony is slated for today, February 27, from 3 to 5 pm at the Hindu Crematorium in Worli, Mumbai.
Anup Jalota, a close friend and fellow musician, reminisced about his cherished bond with the late ghazal icon. Speaking to ANI, Jalota lamented the loss, emphasizing Udhas’ pivotal role in popularizing ghazals across households. The trio of Udhas, Talat Aziz, and Jalota had carved a niche in the music industry, enchanting audiences with their soul-stirring performances.
Jalota’s words echoed the sentiment shared by many admirers of Udhas’ artistry. Despite battling illness, Udhas remained committed to preserving the essence of ghazals, evident through initiatives like the Khazana Ghazal Festival, aimed at nurturing young talent and keeping the genre alive in the hearts of listeners.
Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, Pankaj Udhas rose to prominence with his mesmerizing ghazals, captivating audiences with his soulful voice and poignant lyrics. His solo albums, including “Aahat,” “Mukarar,” and “Tarrannum,” garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as a musical virtuoso.
Udhas’ contributions extended beyond the realm of ghazals, as he left an indelible mark as a playback singer in Hindi cinema, lending his voice to memorable tracks in films like “Naam,” “Saajan,” and “Mohra.”
As the curtains fall on Pankaj Udhas’ illustrious journey, his melodies continue to resonate, serving as a timeless tribute to his enduring legacy in the world of music. Today, as we bid farewell to a maestro, we honor the melodies that will forever echo in the corridors of our hearts.
