He started his career with the release of a ghazal album titled Aahat in 1980 and subsequently recorded many hits like Mukarar in 1981, Tarrannum in 1982, Mehfil in 1983, Pankaj Udhas Live at Royal Albert Hall in 1984, Nayaab in 1985 and Aafreen in 1986.

After his success as a ghazal singer, he was invited to appear and sing for a film by Mahesh Bhatt, Naam, in which his song "Chitthi Aayee Hai" (A Letter Has Arrived) became an instant hit.

His eldest brother Manhar Udhas achieved some success as a Hindi playback singer in Bollywood films.

His father, Keshubhai Udhas, was a government servant and had met the renowned Veena player, Abdul Karim Khan, who taught him to play the dilruba.

He spent ten months in Canada and the US doing ghazal concerts and returned to India with renewed vigour and confidence.

In 1994, Udhas sang the notable song, "Na Kajre Ki Dhar", from the film Mohra along with Sadhana Sargam which also became very popular.

He continued working as a playback singer, making some on-screen appearances in films such as Saajan, Yeh Dillagi, Naam and Phir Teri Kahaani Yaad Aayee.

[13] Pankaj Udhas died, aged 72, of a prolonged illness at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, on 26 February 2024.

[20][21] "Dekh Ke Tumko" "Dil Ki Baatein Hain" Japp Mann Mere Sau Din Safal Ganeya Pucho Sant Mero Dhan Dhan Hamare Das Tere Ki Binti Tu Sabni Thai Tujh Bin Awar