Indian veteran ghazal singer Pankaj Udhas has sadly passed away at 73 following a prolonged illness, reported Indian media on Monday.

Taking to Instagram, the legendary crooner’s daughter Nayaab Udhas released a statement, which read: "With a very heavy heart, we are saddened to inform you of the sad demise of Padmashri Pankaj Udhas on 26th February due to a prolonged illness. Udhas family."

Pankaj Udhas had been suffering from an undisclosed illness and was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where he breathed his last on February 26.

Ghazal maestro Udhas was widely hailed for his iconic renditions, including Chitthi Aayi Hai, Aur Aahista Kijiye Baatein, Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera, and Na Kajre Ki Dhar.

The Padma Shri winner was born on May 17, 1951, in Gujarat. He rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s and ruled the ghazal picture in India for the rest of his life.

Udhas took home prominent accolades throughout his celebrated ghazal career, the highlight being the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award of the Republic of India.

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