Mumbai Bids Adieu to Ghazal Legend Pankaj Udhas with a State Funeral

Mumbai: The city of Mumbai bid a tearful farewell to the legendary ghazal singer, Pankaj Udhas, who succumbed to his battle with cancer. The late maestro was accorded a state funeral, with the band and troops honoring him with a hero’s farewell during the ceremony held on Tuesday.

The solemn event took place at his residence, 6A, Hill Side, where Pankaj Udhas’ mortal remains were draped in the tricolor. The visuals captured the poignant moments as the band and troops paid their respects to the ghazal legend.

The ambulance from Breach Candy hospital brought his mortal remains to his Mumbai residence. The garden area of his house featured a touching portrait of Pankaj Udhas, surrounded by grieving family members and close acquaintances who paid their final respects to the Padma Shri awardee.

Prior to the funeral, prominent figures from the music industry, including Zakir Hussain and Shankar Mahadevan, visited his residence to offer their heartfelt tributes.

The funeral ceremony is scheduled between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Tuesday at the Hindu crematorium in the Worli area of Mumbai. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, shared the details of the funeral on social media, expressing the family’s deep sorrow over his demise on February 26, 2024, after a prolonged illness.

The note posted online read, “With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of his demise on February 26, 2024, due to a prolonged illness. The funeral will take place on Tuesday, February 27, from 3 to 5 p.m. Venue: Hindu crematorium, Worli (Mumbai) Landmark: Opp. Four Seasons Dr E Moses Rd. Worli…The Udhas Family.” The city mourns the loss of a musical icon, and Pankaj Udhas’ legacy lives on through his timeless contributions to the world of ghazals.