At the age of 72, well-known playback and ghazal vocalist Pankaj Udhas passed away. After a protracted illness, he passed away at the Breach Candy hospital at around 11 am. Following the announcement, a number of well-known people and celebrities paid tribute to the artist and sent their sympathies to his family on social media.
Statement made by Narendra Modi
Through his X account, PM Narendra Modi expressed his condolences. “We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji” whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years. His departure leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.
We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years.
His departure leaves… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024
Sonu Nigam’s words
Singer Sonu Nigam, meanwhile, used his Instagram account to express his sadness over the singer’s passing. With the remark, “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
Madhuri Dixit shows respect
On her X account, actress Madhuri Dixit commented, “Deeply saddened by the loss of a music legend, Pankaj Udhas Ji. His gazals touched the souls of people worldwide. His legacy will forever linger in our hearts! Om Shanti From her 1991 film Saajan, Pankaj Udhas sang the solo version of the song Jiye To Jiye Kaise.
Deeply saddened by the loss of a music legend, Pankaj Udhas Ji. His gazals touched the souls of people worldwide.
His legacy will forever linger in our hearts! Om Shanti 🙏🏻#RIP pic.twitter.com/81WMdRbZZ4
— Madhuri Dixit Nene (@MadhuriDixit) February 26, 2024
On his X account, actor Manoj Bajpayee said, “Saddening!!! 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 ! ॐ शान्ति उत्तम कलाकार उत्तम इंसान !
Saddening!!! 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 ! ॐ शान्ति 🙏 उत्तम कलाकार उत्तम इंसान !
— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) February 26, 2024
Sushmita Sen took to her Instagram Stories and offered her tribute to the singer. “Rest in peace Sir @pankajudhas (folded hands emoji) Beautiful soul!!!” she wrote in the caption.
Bhajan singer Anup Galota wrote, “Shocking …. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Shocking 😞…. Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/JT7f8tFMUn
— Anup Jalota (@anupjalota) February 26, 2024
Kajol wrote, “You will be remembered every time music comes up.. Praying for the family
You will be remembered every time music comes up.. Praying for the family#RIP pic.twitter.com/t2XxkIR5nd
— Kajol (@itsKajolD) February 26, 2024
In his homage, singer Adnan Sami said, “Today, I’m at a loss for words. All I can say is “Goodbye dear Pankaj Ji…Thank you for lending your music towards my childhood memories…” May he rest in peace. My deepest Condolences to his family…His music will live till the end of times..
Today, I’m at a loss for words. All I can say is “Goodbye dear Pankaj Ji…Thank you for lending your music towards my childhood memories…”
May he rest in peace. My deepest Condolences to his family…His music will live till the end of times…🙏#PankajUdhas pic.twitter.com/6Upip275Kf— Adnan Sami (@AdnanSamiLive) February 26, 2024
Minister of Information and Broadcasting of India Anurag Thakur remembered the celebrated singer and said, “Deeply saddened the news of passing of Pankaj Udhas ji. His career, spanning more than 4 decades, enriched our music industry and gifted us with some of the most memorable and melodious renditions of gazals. His demise is an irreparable loss to our music world. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and followers in this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”
Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik wrote on his X account: “Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of renowned Ghazal singer #PankajUdhas. His soothing voice and emotive renditions touched the hearts of millions. Legacy of the legendary singer will continue to resonate with fans and music enthusiasts for time to come. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family and friends.”