Fans all over the world are in mourning as the news of the demise of legendary Ghazal maestro, Pankaj Udhas, spread across the internet. The 72-year-old Padmashri recipient breathed his last on February 26, 2024, after battling a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy of soulful melodies that had won millions of hearts.
The confirmation of Pankaj’s passing came through a press statement shared by his daughter, Nayaab Udhas, on her Instagram handle. The statement read, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhar on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness.”
The sudden loss of the Ghazal icon has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fans, fellow artists, and celebrities alike. Social media platforms became a space for expressing grief and paying tribute to the legend who had enriched Indian music with timeless classics such as Chitthi Aayi Hai and Ahista.
Bollywood actor Madhuri Dixit expressed her sentiments on the loss by taking to microblogging platform X, formerly Twitter. “Deeply saddened by the loss of a music legend, Pankaj Udhas Ji. His gazals touched the souls of people worldwide. His legacy will forever linger in our hearts! Om Shanti,” penned the actor.
Renowned singer Sonu Nigam also joined the horde of grieving fans, sharing his sorrow through an Instagram grid post carrying a picture of the late Ghazal master. In the post’s caption, Sonu wrote a heartfelt note, “One of the most important parts of my childhood is lost today. Shri Pankaj Udhas ji, I will miss you forever. My heart cries knowing that you are no more. Thank you for being there. Om Shanti.”
“Very saddened by Pankaj Udhas ji’s passing. His demise is an irreplaceable loss to our music world. My sincere condolences to his family and friends in this difficult time. Om Shanti,” actor Abhishek Bachchan extended his consolation.
As the news of Pankaj’s demise spread, hashtags like #PankajUdhas and #GhazalMaestro began trending on X, becoming a platform for fans to share their favourite memories associated with his music. Social media users reminisced about the impact of Pankaj’s soul-stirring ghazals on their lives and celebrated his contribution to the world of Indian music.
“Thank you, Pankaj Udhas, for creating some of the most beautiful moments in our lives through your music and for truly becoming a part of our lives, at least for many of us. His music shall live on forever. Prayers and hugs for his family and fans,” offered one fan in an X post.
Another reiterated the legendary status of the departed, saying “Thanks for giving such beautiful tracks that will be heard for years to come. An era ends. Pankaj Udhas ji.” “His melodies were a balm to our aching souls in the 90s. Every song was an artistic wonder. Every lyric brought a lovely feeling of calm. Ahista is one of those gems that will forever bring lovers together,” ruefully contended a fan, celebrating Pankaj’s 1998 hit song.
