Haryanavi singer Raju Punjabi

Singer Raju Punjabi from Haryana, who became famous for his songs in the local language, died on Tuesday at a private hospital in Hisar. He was 40. Several news outlets in Haryana reported that Raju was hospitalised approximately 10 days ago due to an undisclosed illness, and his health deteriorated to the point where he required ventilator support. The singer showed signs of recovery and was sent home briefly, but was again rushed to the hospital after his health started deteriorating.

Raju Punjabi was known for hit songs like Desi Desi, Aacha Lage Se, and Tu Cheez Lajawab. His last song, ‘Aapse Milke Yaara Humko Accha Laga Tha’, was released on August 12.

Raju Punjabi was also popular in Punjab and Rajasthan and used to collaborate with other performers like Sapna Chaudhary.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar paid tribute to the singer on the social media website X (formerly known as Twitter). He said Raju Punjabi’s death is an “irreparable loss” to the music industry in Haryana.

प्रसिद्ध हरियाणवी गायक एवं संगीत निर्माता राजू पंजाबी जी के निधन का दुखद समाचार प्राप्त हुआ। उनका जाना हरियाणा म्यूजिक इंडस्ट्री के लिए अपूरणीय क्षति है।

ईश्वर दिवंगत आत्मा को अपने श्री चरणों में स्थान दें तथा उनके परिजनों को यह अथाह दुःख सहन करने की शक्ति प्रदान करें।

ॐ शांति!

— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) August 22, 2023

According to reports, the singer’s body will be taken to his native village of Rawatsar Kheda, where last rites will be performed. He was currently living in Hisar’s Azadnagar. Following the announcement of his death, his family members and supporters have started reaching Hisar.