Pankaj Udhas death: Renowned singer, 72, dies after prolonged illness

The last rites will be performed on Tuesday.

Pankaj Udhas, who remained a prominent part of the Indian entertainment industry for the past several decades, is well known for his contributions to Bollywood and the Indian pop music industry.

Reacting to Udhas' death, Anup Jalota posted on X, "Shocking... Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time."

 

He was born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat's Jetpur. Pankaj Udhas is the youngest of the three brothers. His eldest brother Manhar Udhas is also a popular singer, while his second brother Nirmal Udhas is known as a ghazal singer.

Post the success of his ghazal album Aahat in 1980, Udhas became a prominent name in the industry with hits like Mukarrar, Tarrannum, Mehfil, Shamakhana, Nayaab, Aafreen, Aashiyana, Ek Dhun Pyar Ki, Mahek, Ghoonghat, Lamha, Jashn, Hasrat, Shaayar, Khamoshi Ki Aawaz and Khwabon Ki Kahani.

Udhas is popular for his hit songs like Chitthi Aayi Hai, Na Kajre Ki Dhar, Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai, Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise, Aadmi Khilona Hai and Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata.

In 1990, Udhas collaborated with legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar for a duet, titled Mahiya Teri Kasam, in the Sunny Deol-starrer Ghayal.

He has contributed as a playback singer in successful films like Naam, Saajan, Yeh Dillagi, Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Aayee, Thanedaar, Beta, Baazigar, Mohra, and Jung among others.

For his contribution to Indian cinema, he was honoured with Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award, in 2006 by the Government of India.