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Apart from Sonu Nigam and Shaan, several celebrities such as Vidya Balan, Zakir Hussain, and Shankar Mahadevan were observed honoring the late singer at the funeral.
Speaking to the paparazzi, Shankar fondly recalled Pankaj as a “gentle soul” and praised him as a “remarkable musician” who popularized ghazals among the masses.
Pankaj Udhas antim-darshan: Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain pay last respects
Pankaj Udhas, the renowned singer, passed away on February 26 in Mumbai after battling a prolonged illness. The family conveyed the news through a statement to the press, expressing deep sorrow: “With a heavy heart, we announce the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness.”
Anup Jalota disclosed that Pankaj had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had been fighting it for the past two to three months. “The man who assisted numerous cancer patients succumbed to cancer himself. That’s life,” Jalota remarked to The Indian Express. “He had pancreatic cancer. I was aware of this for the last 5 to 6 months, and he ceased communication with me in the last 2-3 months, indicating his deteriorating health. It saddens me deeply that this illness claimed his life.”
Born on May 17, 1951, in Jetpur, Gujarat, Pankaj Udhas embarked on his musical journey by releasing the ghazal album ‘Aahat’ in 1980. He swiftly became synonymous with ghazal music in India. His rendition of the iconic track ‘Chitthi Aayee Hai’ for Sanjay Dutt’s film ‘Naam’ further solidified his presence in Bollywood. Over the years, Pankaj released numerous albums and held numerous live concerts, significantly enhancing his popularity. His contributions to music were recognized with India’s fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri.