Pankaj Udhas’ Cause Of Death, Obituary: What Happened to Ghazal Singer? How Did He Die?
Pankaj Udhas, one of the most popular and influential ghazal singers of India, breathed his last on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, due to cancer. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Nayaab Udhas, who said, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness.”
The ghazal maestro, who was awarded the Padma Shri in 2006 for his contribution to the art and culture of India, had a remarkable career spanning over four decades. He mesmerized millions of fans across the world with his soulful and melodious voice, and his songs touched upon various themes of love, longing, pain, and joy.
Early Life and Career
Udhas was born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, to a family of singers. His parents, Keshubhai Udhas (father), was a classical vocalist and his elder brother, Manhar Udhas, was also a playback singer. Pankaj Udhas developed a passion for music at a young age and started learning classical music from his father. He also took lessons from Ustad Abdul Rehman Khan and Ustad Fateh Ali Khan of the Patiala Gharana.
He moved to Mumbai in 1966 to pursue his musical dreams and enrolled in the Sangeet Natya Academy. He made his debut as a playback singer in 1972 with the film Kamna, but it was not until 1980 that he got his first major break with the film Thodi Si Bewafai, in which he sang the hit song “Aaj Phir Tum Pe Pyaar Aaya Hai”.
However, it was his ghazal album Aahat, released in 1980, that established him as a ghazal singer of repute. The album was a huge success and paved the way for his subsequent albums, such as Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), Mehfil (1983), Pankaj Live at Royal Albert Hall (1984), Nayaab (1985), and Aafreen (1986).
Pankaj Udhas Death Cause
| Name | Pankaj Udhas |
|---|---|
| Born | 17 May 1951 |
| Died | 26 February 2024 |
| Birthplace | Jetpur, Gujarat, India |
| Occupation | Ghazal and playback singer |
| Death Date | 26 February 2024 |
| Death Cause | Cancer & Prolonged Disease |
| Years active | 1980–2024 |
| Spouse | Farida Udhas |
| Children | Nayaab Udhas, Reva Udhas |
| Awards | Padma Shri (2006) |
| Genres | Ghazals, Indian pop |
| Instruments | Vocals, harmonium, guitar, piano, violin, tabla |
| Labels | EMI, T-Series |
| Siblings | Manhar Udhas, Nirmal Udhas, sister |
| Wikipedia | @Pankaj_Udhas |
See Also:- Reva Udhas Wikipedia, Age, Husband, Family
How Did He Die?
He died at the age of 72 on February 26, 2024, at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, due to cancer. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, confirmed the news and said that he was suffering from cancer and was undergoing treatment. Pankaj Udhas was known for his ghazals like ‘Chitti Ayi Hai’ and ‘Chandi Jaisa Rang’ and had a rich and diverse musical legacy. He will be missed by many fans and admirers across the world.
Rise to Fame and Popularity
Pankaj Udhas reached the zenith of his fame and popularity in 1986, when he sang the iconic song “Chitthi Aayi Hai” for the film Naam, directed by Mahesh Bhatt. The song, which depicted the emotions of a homesick immigrant in the Gulf, resonated with the masses and became a national anthem of sorts. The song also earned him his first Filmfare nomination for the best male playback singer.
He continued to sing for films, such as Saajan (1991), Yeh Dillagi (1994), Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Aayi (1993), and Dhadkan (2000), but his main focus remained on ghazals. He released several albums, such as Shagufta (1987), Lamha (1988), Khazana (1989), Mahek (1999), and Hasrat (2005), which showcased his versatility and mastery over the genre. He also collaborated with other ghazal singers, such as Jagjit Singh, Anup Jalota, Talat Aziz, and Penaz Masani, and performed at various concerts and events across the world.
Legacy and Awards
Udhas was not only a singer, but also a composer, lyricist, and producer. He composed and produced many of his own albums, such as Stolen Moments (1995), Muskaan (1996), Ghoonghat (1997), and Humsafar (2000). He also wrote lyrics for some of his songs, such as “Na Kajre Ki Dhar”, “Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein”, and “Niklo Na Benaqab”.
He was also a philanthropist and a social activist, who supported various causes, such as education, health, environment, and women empowerment. He was the founder of Parents Association Thalassemic Unit Trust, a charitable organization that works for the welfare of thalassemia patients. He also participated in several campaigns and events, such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Save the Girl Child.
He received numerous awards and honors for his achievements and contributions, such as the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award of India, in 2006, the Giants International Award for excellence in the field of music in 1994, the Lata Mangeshkar Award by the Madhya Pradesh government in 2011, and the Kalakar Award for the best ghazal singer in 2012. He was also conferred with honorary doctorates by the World Records University in 2010 and the Gujarat University in 2016.
Pankaj Udhas was a legend who left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry and the hearts of millions of fans. He was a pioneer who popularized ghazals among the masses and brought them to the mainstream. He was a versatile and talented artist who experimented with different styles and genres of music. He was a humble and generous human being who cared for the society and the environment. He was a source of inspiration and joy for many aspiring and established singers. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers. His songs will continue to live on and remind us of his legacy. He will always be remembered as the ghazal king who made us cry, smile, and fall in love with his voice. Rest in peace, Pankaj Udhas. You will always be in our hearts.
Read Also:- Farida Udhas Wikipedia, Age, Children, Family
