Renowned ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas breathed his last on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, following a prolonged illness. He was 72 years old. Udhas, known for his soulful renditions and timeless contributions to the Indian music industry, had been undergoing treatment for an extended period before succumbing to his illness.

Born on May 17, 1951, Udhas captivated audiences with his mesmerizing voice and poignant lyrics for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. 

Pankaj Udhas, born in Jetpur, Gujarat, was the youngest of three brothers. He gained widespread acclaim with the track "Chithi Aayi Hai" from Mahesh Bhatt's movie Naam (1986), which was composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. This success solidified his position as a Bollywood mainstay. Pankaj collaborated frequently with renowned composers like Bappi Lahiri, Anu Malik, and Anand-Milind, endearing himself to Indian music lovers.

His inspiration for ghazals came from legends like Begum Akhtar and Mehdi Hasan, while he also admired the English rock band Beatles and American singer Whitney Houston. Pankaj Udhas' musical journey reflects a fusion of diverse influences that have resonated with a wide audience.

Pankaj Udhas has an interesting connection to Bollywood's Baadshah, Shah Rukh Khan. It is said that Shah Rukh Khan earned his inaugural salary at one of Pankaj Udhas' concerts. Serving as an usher, SRK received Rs 50 as payment, which he then used to travel to Agra by train. This anecdote highlights a noteworthy chapter in Shah Rukh Khan's early journey in the entertainment industry.

The news of his demise has left fans, peers, and the music fraternity in mourning, as tributes pour in from across the country for the legendary artist.

His last rites are scheduled to take place in Mumbai on Tuesday, February 26, 2024, where family, friends, and admir6ers will bid farewell to the maestro, whose melodious tunes will continue to resonate in the hearts of millions.