Sonu Nigam says his 'heart cries' as he mourns demise of Pankaj Udhas

Mumbai, Feb 26 (IANS) Leading playback singer Sonu Nigam expressed his grief at the passing of ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas, describing him as “an important part” of his childhood. Nigam took to his social media to offer condolences to the bereaved family, stating, “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.”
Pankaj Udhas, a Padma Shri awardee, breathed his last on Monday, February 26, at the age of 72. Known for his enchanting voice and soulful renditions, Udhas leaves behind a legacy that will resonate with music lovers for generations to come. Born into a family of musicians, he embarked on his musical journey at a young age, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the world of ghazals and playback singing.
Udhas’s career soared with the release of his debut album ‘Aahat’ in 1980, followed by a string of successful albums like ‘Mukarar’, ‘Tarrannum’, ‘Mehfil’, ‘Nayaab’, and ‘Aafreen’. His iconic song ‘Chitthi Aayee Hai’ from the 1986 film ‘Naam’ was an instant hit, solidifying his position as a leading playback singer in Bollywood. Apart from playback singing, Udhas was also renowned for his live performances and albums, showcasing his mastery over the ghazal genre, earning him a dedicated fan following and critical acclaim.