Hyderabad: Renowned Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, whose soulful voice captivated audiences for decades, received a state funeral in Mumbai on Tuesday. A slew of celebrities from the film and music industries, alongside his grieving family, gathered at the Hindu Crematorium in Worli, Mumbai, to bid him farewell.
Honouring him with a hero's tribute, the band and troops accompanied his final journey. His mortal remains, draped in the tricolor, were brought from Breach Candy Hospital to his residence at 6A, Hill Side in Mumbai. Videos depicted the solemn procession as the band and troops paid homage to the ghazal maestro.
Udhas, a globally renowned Ghazal maestro and Padma Shri laureate, died on Monday at the age of 72. The iconic singer died after a prolonged illness. He is survived by his wife Farida and two kids, Reva and Nayaab.
From Prime Minister Narendra Modi, top union leaders to industry stalwarts, many poured their heartfelt condolences on social media after learning about his demise. In his tribute to the departed soul, PM Modi said Pankaj Udhas' death leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Veteran actor Anupam Kher too expressed his grief on the demise of singer Pankaj Udhas. The actor took to his Instagram on Monday and shared a piece to camera video of him paying a tribute to the ghazal legend.
Earlier, Nayaab broke the news of the music maestro's demise on social media with a post that read, "With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness." The musician, who peaked in the 1990s, left the music industry devastated.
Pankaj Udhas was born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat. In addition to writing ghazals, he was well-known for his film work. Some of his most popular renditions include Chitthi Aayi Hai, Chandani Raat Mein, Na Kajre Ki Dhaar, Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, Ek Taraf Uska Ghar, and Thodi Thodi Piya Karo. He also gained recognition as a playback vocalist in numerous Hindi films, including Naam, Saajan, and Mohra.
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