Legendary singer Pankaj Udhas passed away on Monday morning in Mumbai. While his daughter Nayaab Udhas confirmed the news stating that he was battling a prolonged illness, his good friend, singer Anup Jalota exclusively confirmed to Indianexpress.com that the 72-year-old singer was battling cancer. Pankaj had pancreatic cancer and Anup revealed he had known about this for the last five to six months.
Talking about the ghazal maestro’s demise, Anup said, “People have lost Pankaj Udhas, but I have lost a very dear friend today. We were friends for 45 years. We used to spend beautiful evenings together. In those days, Pankaj, me, and Talat Aziz were famous. We would work together.”
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A post shared by Nayaab Udhas (@nayaabudhas)
He added, “The man who helped so many cancer patients, himself died of cancer. That is life. He had pancreatic cancer. I knew this for the last 5 to 6 months, and he stopped talking to me in the last 2-3 months, so I realized that his health was not okay. I feel very sad that this illness took his life.”
Anup Jalota shared that he was in touch with Pankaj Udhas’ daughter Nayaab. The singer also took to social media to share some pictures remembering his good friend.
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
Anup told IANS, “I never told anybody about his illness. I knew it would take him, but never imagined that it would be so soon. My trio with Pankaj and Talat was quite famous. We have done so many concerts together. He has had a major contribution in helping ghazals reach households.”
Pankaj Udhas’ funeral will take place on Tuesday.
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