Pankaj Udhas: A Tribute to the Ghazal Maestro

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Pankaj Udhas: A Tribute to the Ghazal Maestro

Pankaj Udhas, one of the most celebrated ghazal singers of India, passed away on February 26, 2024, at the age of 72. He was suffering from a prolonged illness and breathed his last at a Mumbai hospital. His daughter Nayaab Udhas confirmed the news on Instagram, writing, “With a heavy heart, we announce the demise of our beloved father Pankaj Udhas. He left us for his heavenly abode this morning after a long battle with his health. He was a legend, a music icon, and above all, a loving father and husband. We will miss him forever.”

Pankaj Udhas was born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat. He belonged to a musical family and was inspired by his father, who played the dilruba, and his elder brother Manhar Udhas, who was a playback singer in Bollywood. Pankaj Udhas started learning music at a young age and moved to Mumbai to pursue his passion. He made his debut as a ghazal singer with the album Aahat in 1980 and gained recognition with the song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” from the film Naam in 1986. The song, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal and written by Anand Bakshi, became a huge hit and touched the hearts of millions of Indians, especially those living abroad.

Pankaj Udhas went on to record many successful albums and songs, such as Mukarar, Tarrannum, Mehfil, Nayaab, Aafreen, Chandi Jaisa Rang, Aur Ahista, Na Kajre Ki Dhar, Jiye To Jiye Kaise, and Chupke Chupke. He also sang for many films, such as Saajan, Yeh Dillagi, Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Aayee, and Mohra. He collaborated with many renowned composers, such as Bappi Lahiri, Anu Malik, Anand-Milind, and Nadeem-Shravan. He was known for his distinctive style of singing, which blended classical and contemporary elements. He also experimented with different genres, such as pop, devotional, and patriotic. He was admired for his soulful voice, expressive lyrics, and melodious tunes.

Pankaj Udhas was not only a popular singer but also a respected artist. He was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2006 for his contribution to the field of music and art. He was also awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2019. He performed at many prestigious venues and events, such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Wembley Arena, the Kennedy Center, and the Festival of India. He also participated in many social and charitable causes, such as the Thalassemia Society of India, the Cancer Patients Aid Association, and the Parents Association Thalassemic Unit Trust.

Pankaj Udhas was a legend in the world of ghazal music and a source of inspiration for many aspiring singers. His music transcended boundaries and generations and touched the lives of countless people. He left behind a rich legacy of timeless songs that will be cherished for years to come. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, fans, and the entire music fraternity.

Rest in peace, Pankaj Udhas. Thank you for the music. 🙏

If you want to read more about Pankaj Udhas, you can check out these links:

If you want to listen to some of his best songs, you can check out these links:

If you want to see some of his photos, you can check out these links:


Chronicles by Indus
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Location: India