Renowned Indian singer Pankaj Udhas passes away at 72

Renowned Indian Ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness, his family confirmed on Monday.

According to the Indian media, the veteran singer breathed his last at 11am today at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.

The sad news was shared by Pankaj's daughter Nayaab Udhas with the deceased's fans on Instagram.

"With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February due to a prolonged illness. Udhas family," he post read.

Ghazal maestro Udhas' iconic songs include Aur Aahista Kijiye Baatein, Na Kajre Ki Dhar, Chitthi Aayi Hai, and Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera.

He was also the recipient of India's prestigious award Padma Shri. 

Udhas gained fame with his ghazal album "Aahat" in 1980 and continued his excellence with hits like Mukarar, Tarannum and Mehfil.

He was born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat and died on February 26, 2024 in Mumbai.