The world of music was plunged into sorrow as the iconic ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas breathed his last on Monday, February 26, leaving behind a rich legacy of soul-stirring melodies. Amidst a wave of grief and tributes, his daughter Nayaab Udhas has announced the plans for a prayer meeting to honor the memory of the legendary artist. Scheduled for this coming Saturday, 2nd March, the gathering will unite friends, family, and fans to remember the revered musician.
On her social media platform, Nayaab Udhas provided the specific details of her father’s upcoming prayer meeting. A heartfelt post on Instagram showcased a picture of Pankaj Udhas with the announcement: “PRAYER MEET WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, 2ND MARCH, 2024 TRIDENT HOTEL, THE ROOFTOP, NARIMAN POINT. FROM 4:00 PM TO 6:00 PM.” This invitation opens the doors for admirers to pay their last respects and celebrate the maestro’s contributions to the world of music.
Renowned for his deeply emotive ghazals and his contributions as a playback singer in Indian cinema, Pankaj Udhas’ passing has been mourned nationally. The singer’s daughter Nayaab, in a poignant Instagram post, addressed his fans, “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.”
In the wake of his demise, scores of luminaries from diverse spheres have expressed their deep condolences. Among them were celebrated singers Sonu Nigam and Anup Jalota, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sonu Nigam, visibly moved by the loss, shared an image of Pankaj Udhas and lamented, “One of the most important parts 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.”
Anup Jalota, a close associate in the music fraternity, expressed his shock and grief on Instagram: “Shocking… Music legend & my friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, Pankaj Udhas’ career was a remarkable journey that garnered a massive following. He achieved his first major success in 1980 with the album ‘Aahat’. Subsequently, he continued to enamor audiences with ‘Mukarar’ (1981), ‘Tarrannum’ (1982), ‘Mehfil’ (1983), amongst others. His voice gave life to unforgettable hits such as ‘Chitthi Aayee Hai’, ‘Chandani Raat Mein’, ‘Na Kajre Ki Dhaar’, ‘Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein’, ‘Ek Taraf Uska Ghar’, and ‘Thodi Thodi Piya Karo’, each resonating with the emotional depth of ghazal singing.
Last rites for the ghazal maestro were conducted in Mumbai, bringing together a host of celebrities who arrived to extend their sympathies to the Udhas family. The cultural world and the heart of Indian music, in particular, were perceptibly dimmed with the passing of Pankaj Udhas, a figure who not only defined the genre of ghazals for generations but also served as a bridge between traditional poetry and contemporary music audiences.
As Nayaab Udhas’ Instagram post circulates online, it beckons those who were touched by Pankaj Udhas’ music to come together in his remembrance. Amid the somber reflections, his oeuvre of works stands as a testament to his tremendous talent and soulful voice—an enduring legacy that will echo through the corridors of music for years to come. The prayer meeting at The Trident Hotel’s rooftop, against the backdrop of Nariman Point, promises to be a fitting tribute to this stalwart of Indian music.
