Following the sad demise of the ghazal maestro and playback singer Pankaj Udhas, on Monday, condolences poured in from Bollywood celebrities and musicians. Veteran actor Anupam Kher also mourned the passing of the Chitthi Aayi Hai singer in a heartfelt Instagram video.
Expressing his grief, Kher said, “Pankaj Udhas ji. Why do some people leave like this? There are some people whom you seldom meet, but every time you’ve met them, you have beautiful memories of them. When you suddenly realize that they have left, their memories shroud your mind.”
Pankaj passed away at the age of 72 after a long battle with illness. His family confirmed the news in a statement, which read, “With profound sadness, we inform you of the passing of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on February 26th due to a prolonged illness. — The Udhas Family.”
Watch the emotion video message posted by Anupam:
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)
Describing Pankaj Udhas as “a wonderful person, soft-spoken, loving, and always smiling,” Anupam Kher acknowledged his musical talent, saying, “Of course, a great ghazal singer, a great singer.”
Also read: Pankaj Udhas was disheartened by the diminishing presence of ghazals in Bollywood: ‘They think in terms of Hollywood’
Anupam then referenced the popular song Chitti Aayi Hai and expressed, “Ab chitti nahi aayegi’ (The letters won’t come anymore).” He shared, “I heard him sing this song many times. Back then, we met frequently. We even flew together twice, unplanned encounters on my way to America. He was a very tender, sweet, good-hearted person.”
Also read: Pankaj Udhas (1951-2024): Voice of longing and heartache, his melodies transcended generations
Across his decades in music, the late singer has left fans with a treasure trove of unforgettable tunes. Na Kajre Ki Dhar, Thodi Thodi Piya Karo, Aur Aahista, Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera, and Aap Jinke Kareeb Hote Hai are among the many songs that he belted out during his illustrious career.
Expressing his shock, the 68-year-old actor said, “This shouldn’t have happened. It feels even lonelier when a contemporary, someone you love, leaves so suddenly. We all grieve the loss of every member of our industry, but some leave an undeniable void. We will all miss him.”
Anupam then adds that he is imagining the late ghazal singer in heaven. “Now you will perform for the people in heaven…” He implied Udhas would reunite with his father and Anupam’s dear friend, Satish Kaushik, and sing for them.
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