Salim Merchant mourns the loss of the late Pankaj Udhas, says, 'lost a great artist and an even greater human being'

Pic courtesy/ IMDb

Salim Merchant, a singer-composer, paid heartfelt respects to Ghazal icon Pankaj Udhas, who departed on Monday following an extended illness. The great vocalist, he added, enhanced and bolstered the music business with his everlasting songs.

Speaking to ANI on Monday, the singer-composer mourned the passing of the singing stalwart, saying, "He entertained us for many years and boosted and enriched our industry through his evergreen ghazals and other songs. He spread the message of love and oneness through his songs."

"I have been in shock since I received the news of his demise. I still can't believe he is no more. The word of his passing made me speechless. He has left a massive void in the music industry. We have lost a great artiste and an even greater human being."

The recipient of the country's fourth-highest civilian honour, Padma Shri, Pankaj Udhas breathed his last at the age of 72. Taking to Instagram, his daughter Nayaab shared a statement on Instagram that read, "With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February 2024 due to a prolonged illness."

Soon after Nayaab shared the news of the singer's demise, his fans swamped the comment section and posted their condolences.A fan wrote, "May his soul rest in peace." "I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, stay strong and please accept my condolences," another user wrote. "Deepest Condolences and Prayers," another user posted.

On May 17, 1951, Udhas was born in Jetpur, Gujarat. In addition to composing classic ghazals, he will be warmly remembered for songs that were used in motion pictures. The 1980 solo ghazal album 'Aahat' brought him widespread popularity. Later, among many more hits, he recorded 'Mukarar' in 1981, 'Tarrannum' in 1982, and 'Mehfil' in 1983.

The timeless ghazals 'Chitthi Aayi Hai,' 'Chandani Raat Mein,' 'Na Kajre Ki Dhaar,' 'Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein,' 'Ek Taraf Uska Ghar,' and 'Thodi Thodi Piya Karo' were also recorded by Pankaj Udhas.

The music industry was shocked and grieving at the singer's passing.

(With inputs from ANI)