Mumbai: Renowed Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas passed away in a private hospital here on Monday after prolonged illness.
He was 72.
The Ghazal Icon was admitted in breach candy hospital where he breathed his last.
The legendary singer was born in Jetpur in Gujarat.
According to a statement issued by his family, it said, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhad on February 26, 2024,' due to a prolonged illness.
Udhas started his career with a release of a ghazal album titled Aahat in 1980 and subsequently recorded many hits like Mukarar in 1981, Tarrannum in 1982, Mehfil in 1983, Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall in 1984, Nayaab in 1985 and Aafreen in 1986.
After his success as a ghazal singer, he was invited to appear and sing for a film by Mahesh Bhatt, Naam.
Udhas rose to further fame for singing in the 1986 film Naam, in which his song "Chitthi Aayee Hai" (the letter has arrived) became an instant hit. He did playback singing for many Hindi films after that.
Albums and live concerts around the globe brought him fame as a singer. In 2006, Pankaj Udhas was awarded Padma Shri.
Taking to his Instagram account, singer Sonu Nigam wrote, “One of the most important part 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.