Renowned ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas, best known for Chitthi Ayee Hai and Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, died on Monday following a prolonged illness, his daughter Nayaab said. He was 72. Soon after the news broke, several celebs and fans including singer Anup Jalota, Sonu Nigam and Manoj Bajpayee paid tribute to the ghazal maestro.

PM Narendra Modi condoles the death of Pankaj Udhas

PM Modi shared several throwback photos with Udhas and penned a heartfelt note recalling his various interactions with him over the years. "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," read his note.

Celebs pay tribute to Pankaj Udhas

Veteran singer Sonu Nigam shared a photo on his Instagram handle and penned a heartfelt note remembering the maestro. The note read, "One of the most important part of my childhood, is lost today. 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."

Actor Manoj Bajpayee paid tribute to the late Pankaj Udhas on X. Calling him "Uttam kalkar and uttam insaan," he wrote, "Saddening!!! Rest in peace Pankaj udhas ji ! Had the privilege of listening to you and getting mesmerised by the sweet texture of your voice and Sur!" 

Anup Jalota, who shared a great bond with Udhas shared several throwback photos with the maestro and extended condolence to his family. He wrote, "Shocking... Music legend & my Friend #PankajUdhas passes away. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his Family and loved ones during this difficult time."

Harshdeep Kaur shared a throwback photo with the late ghazal singer and wrote, "This is such a sad news... Rest in peace Pankaj Ji. You will always live through your music. Deepest condolence to the family."

Amitabh Bachchan expressed his disbelief at the passing of Udhas and said that his demise has left a void in the music industry. He wrote, "Very saddened by Pankaj Udhas ji's passing. His demise is an irreplaceable loss to our music world. My sincere condolences to his family and friends in this difficult time. Om Shanti."

Fans condole the death of Pankaj Udhas

Soon after Udhas' daughter shared the post on her Instagram handle, the fans flooded the comment section. A user wrote, "Condolences to you and your family! God bless you with all the strength." One of Nayaab's acquaintances wrote, "Can’t believe this devastated by this news. The most kind & loving Shri Pankaj Udhas ji! May almighty give strength to you @nayaabudhas @ojasadhiya & the whole family in these difficult times. Prayers."

Pankaj Udhas is served by his wife Farida Udhas and daughters - Reva Udhas, Nayaab Udhas