What a year it has been. A year that has allowed us to enjoy blissful moments. But also brought with it episodes of complete sadness. This is because we had to say goodbye to some of our very talented artists and distinguished personalities. Their persona was awe-inspiring. And while they may have left us but they are surely not forgotten. Social Diary pays a tribute to some of Pakistan’s poignant ones who deserve a sweet adieu:
Rasheed Naz
Born in Peshawar in 1948, Rasheed Naz had a fruitful career of over 40 years. In 1971, he started his television career as an actor in Pushto television play. His first Urdu play was “Aik Tha Gaoon” (1973). His first popular play was “Namoos”. He also worked in Pakistan’s first private television play “Dasht”, telecast on NTM.
Nayyara Noor
Noor, known as the “melody queen” of Pakistan, was one of the top playback singers in the country. Despite having no formal musical education or training, she demonstrated her innate singing talent throughout the subcontinent. She was born on Nov 3, 1950, in Guwahati, Assam where she spent her early childhood. She was seven when her family migrated to Pakistan. In 1973, she was awarded the Nigar Award for Best Playback Singer in the film “Gharana”. In 1977, her reputation peaked as the songs of the film “Aaina” touched the hearts of Pakistanis.
Tony Navaid Rashid
Rashid passed away due to cardiac arrest. News of his sudden demise came as a shock to those in the entertainment fraternity. His impeccable comic timing, on-screen persona and larger-than-life persona earned him the ‘Pakistani Johny Walker’ title. His role in the film even landed him his first Nigar Award. On the work front, Tara’s last series, Woh Pagal Si, aired earlier this year in July.
Ismail Tara
The legendary TV star rose to fame with his iconic role in Pakistani drama Fifty Fifiy. He later worked in many stage plays, television dramas and 14 Lollywood films. He is five times Nigar Awards winner for best comedian in Haathi Mere Saathi, Aakhri Mujra, Munda Bigra Jaye, Chief Sahib and Deewarein.
Tanveer Jamal
In his fruitful career of 35 long years, Jamal has played key roles in prominent dramas including Godfather, Tasweer and Teri Raza.The actor was renowned for his brilliant acting prowess and a career spanning over three decades. He has even received accolades for his amazing performance from PTV. Jamal is survived by his Japanese wife and three kids.
