Pankaj Udhas, the renowned Indian Ghazal singer, passed away on 26 February 2024 at the age of 72. He has left behind a legacy of timeless ghazals that have captivated the audiences for years. His daughter shared the news of his demise on social media. In memory of Pankaj Udhas’ legacy, let’s cherish some of his best songs. 

1. Song: Chitthi Aayi Hai
Film: Naam
Music Director: Laxmikant Pyarelal
Lyricist: Anand Bakshi
This remarkable song was a part of the 1986 film ‘Naam’ starring Sanjay Dutt, Nutan, and Amrita Singh in the lead roles. The film achieved tremendous success with the iconic song of Pankaj Udhas. 
  
2. Song: Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera
Film: Ek Hi Maqsad
Music Director: Pankaj Udhas
This song was an absolute favourite of audiences in Pankaj Udhas’ live concerts. Written by Kateel Shifai, some of the lyrics were also penned by Mumtaz Rashid. In the year 1984, it was first performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1984.

3. Aur Aahista Kijiye Baatein
Album: Aur Aahista Kijiye Baatein (1998)
Musid Director: Pankaj Udhas

4. Song: Ek Taraf Uska Ghar
Album: Peene Walo Suno
Company: Universal Music India Pvt Ltd.

5. Album: Mukarrar
Music Label: Universal Music India Pvt Ltd.
Released in: 1981

6. Song: Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise
Film: Sajan
Music: Nadeem Shravan
Lyrics: Sameer
This popular song was featured in the 1991 Hindi film ‘Sajan.’ Directed by Lawrence D’Souza, the lead actors in the film were Sanjay Dutt, Madhuri Dixit, and Salman Khan. The music directed, composed and penned by Nadeem-Shravan and Sameer respectively, earned immense appreciation. 

7. Song: Na Kajre Ki Dhaar
Film: Mohra (1994)
Singers: Pankaj Udhas and Sadhana Sargam
Music: Viju Shah
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Mohra emerged as the second highest-grossing film in 1994. This Hindi-language action-thriller directed by Rajeev Rai featured Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, and Raveena Tandon in lead roles. The film’s hit song ‘Na Kajre Ki Dhaar Se’ contributed to the success of the film. 

8. Song: Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata
Film: Baazigar (1983)
The film’s soundtrack was composed by Anu Malik. ‘Baazigar’ also marked the breakthrough of Shah Rukh Khan as the lead actor. Released in 1983, the film gained immense success with Pankaj Udhas’ song ‘Chhupana Bhi Nahi Aata.’