Popular ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas is no more. He breathed his last at 72 today. 'Chitthi Aayi Hai' from Mahesh Bhatt's 1986 crime thriller 'Naam' is familiar not only to the Hindi audience but also to southern Indians.
Dignitaries have sent out their condolence messages. "We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years. His departure leaves a void in the music world that can never be filled. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," tweeted PM Narendra Modi. "Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran singer, Pankaj Udhas, one of the greatest performers of Indian Ghazal of our times, today at Mumbai. His departure will create a vacuum in the Indian music world," wrote West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.
Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty wrote that he was deeply saddened to hear about the passing. "His soulful voice touched the hearts of millions. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones," the actor added.
Singers Hariharan, Adnan Sami, and several others joined the nation in mourning the tragic demise. "For me, Pankaj Udhas is one of the voices that touches you like a feather and hugs you when needed. Thanks for your music," a music lover wrote on Twitter.
