The music world is in profound mourning as the iconic Pankaj Udhas, renowned ghazal and playback singer, passed away at the age of 72. The Udhas family officially announced on Monday that his demise resulted from a prolonged illness. 

"With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padma Shri Pankaj Udhas on 26 February due to a prolonged illness," stated the Udhas family. 

Born on May 17, 1951, Pankaj Udhas gained fame for his soulful renditions of iconic songs such as "Chitthi Aayi Hai" from Mahesh Bhatt's 1986 crime thriller "Naam," "Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai" from Pravin Bhatt's 1998 film "Ek Hi Maqsad," "Aaj Phir Tumpe" from Feroz Khan's 1988 action thriller "Dayavan," "Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise" from Lawrence D'Souza's 1991 romantic film "Saajan," and "Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata" from Abbas-Mustan's 1993 revenge thriller "Baazigar," among other memorable tracks.

Numerous singers and celebrities, including Sonu Nigam, Anu Malik, and Madhuri Dixit, expressed their condolences on social media. Sonu Nigam shared on Instagram, "Today, a significant part of my childhood is lost. Shri Pankaj Udhas ji, I will forever miss you. My heart is heavy knowing that you are no longer with us. Thank you for being there. Om Shanti."

Narendra Modi also conveyed his heartfelt condolences, stating, "We deeply mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a spectrum of emotions, and whose Ghazals resonated directly with the soul. He was a guiding light in Indian music, and his melodies transcended generations. I reflect on my various interactions with him over the years."