Sonu Nigam, Anup Jalota, Madhuri Dixit remember singer Pankaj Udhas

Ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas passed away earlier today. He was 72. Udhas was suffering from a prolonged illness and was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where he breathed his last on Monday morning. People from the film industry expressed their sadness at his demise and remembered the ghazal maestro for his contribution to Indian music.

Singer Sonu Nigam took to Instagram to offer his condolences. He 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.”

Devotional Bhajan singer Anup Jalota called Udhas a music legend as he wrote, “Shocking. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Madhuri Dixit commended the singer's legacy by saying, “Deeply saddened by the loss of a music legend, Pankaj Udhas Ji. His ghazals touched the souls of people worldwide. His legacy will forever linger in our hearts! Om Shanti.”

Paying his tributes to the singer, actor Abhishek Bachchan wrote, “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.”

Actor Manoj Bajpayee also expressed his sadness and wrote, “Rest in peace Pankaj Udhas ji. Had the privilege of listening to you and getting mesmerised by the sweet texture of your voice and Sur.”

Director Hansal Mehta called him an important part of his growing years. He wrote, “The ultimate ghazal escape for us gujjus, beyond maikhana, chandi, sona and ishq he introduced me to the poetry of Mumtaz Rashid.”

Pankaj Udhas began his musical journey from a young age. His elder brother, Manhar Udhas, was already a playback singer in Bollywood at that time. Pankaj came up with his first ghazal album in the year 1980 titled, Aahat. He has released over 60 albums since then that have captivated listeners with his soulful voice.

The ghazal maestro was awarded the Padma Shri in 2006 for his contribution in the field of music. He is also the recipient of Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his ghazal singing.