Pankaj Udhas Cremated With State Honour, Friends And Family Bid Farewell

The ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, who died on February 26, was laid to rest in full state honour on Tuesday (February 27) among his family and celebrities from the industry.  

Pankaj Udhas, who died on February 26, was laid to rest in full state honour on Tuesday.

New Delhi: The ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, who died on February 26, was laid to rest in full state honour on Tuesday (February 27) among his family and celebrities from the industry.  

His mortal remains were wrapped in tricolour at his residence, 6A, Hill Side in Mumbai. The late singer was honoured with a state salute by the Mumbai Police. His last rites were performed at the Hindu Crematorium in Worli around 5 pm. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Celebrities paid their last respect to the singer
Celebrities such as Soni Nigam, Vidya Balan, Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, and Sunil Gavaskar were seen at the crematorium, offering their final tributes to the musical maestro. The emotional funeral witnessed daughter Reva breaking down. Pankaj Udhas' elder brother, Manhar Udhas, was also in attendance. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan, who was present at Pankaj Udhas’ residence, paid last respects to the Padma Shri awardee. 

He told the media, "Pankaj Udhas took ghazal singing to the masses. He used to always encourage us and give us blessings. He always had a positive approach towards everything. Whenever the musical fraternity had to take any important decision, Pankaj ji used to be always there with us. We will all miss him a lot." 

Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who was also present at Pankaj's residence, said, "You all know why we have come here. Pankaj bhaiya is not only a diamond of our country, but a renowned artist. But above all, he was a great human being. The love he has given to all of you, and the happiness he has given to the entire country through his music, there is no parallel to it. We love Pankaj bhaiya and his family so much.” 

On Monday, the ghazal maestro’s family released a statement informing his demise after a prolonged illness. The singer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months back and was undergoing treatment at Breach Candy Hospital, where he breathed his last. 

The statement read, “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."   

About the ghazal maestro 
Born in 1951, Pankaj Udhas was a legendary Indian singer known for his soulful ghazals. Udhas' unique voice and deep understanding of the poetry brought these songs to life, touching the hearts of listeners.