A year of loss | The Express Tribune

KARACHI:

As the curtain falls on 2024, it is time to look back at some of the memorable figures of the entertainment industry who left for their permanent abode this year. As we honour these artists and their contributions to the cultural landscape of Pakistan, their legacies burn bright. The impact they left on the industry and beyond will be felt by the generations that tread in their wake.

Khalid Butt

Date of passing: January 11, 2024

Renowned actor and director Khalid Butt made his acting debut in the 1970s, making his mark across both films and television. His contributions to the industry will remain entrenched in the hearts of viewers, particularly with his performances in Janjaal Pura, Boota from Toba Tek Singh, Landa Bazar. Butt succumbed to liver – and kidney-related complications while his drama Khaie was still airing.

Rashid Dar

Date of passing: March 15, 2024

Veteran producer and director Rashid Dar was the man behind popular serials such as Andhera Ujala, Alf Noon and Mann Chale Ka Sauda, making his presence a staple feature of the so-called golden era of Pakistani television. Dar made his final bow after a battle with cancer in Lahore at the age of 84.

Talat Hussain

Date of passing: May 26, 2024

The death of theatre, film and television legend Talat Hussain at the age of 83 left a gaping hole in the Pakistani entertainment industry. Hussain cemented his legacy with performances in the serials Bandish, Hawain and Parchaiyan, as well as Gumnaam, Actor in Law and Indian film Sauten Ki Beti.

Taskeen Zafar

Date of passing: June 9, 2024

Legendary voice of Radio Pakistan, Urdu newscaster Taskeen Zafar passed away in Rawalpindi after a brief illness at the age of 67. Born in the same city, Zafar’s broadcasting career spanned over four decades where she hosted programmes on news and current affairs. Zafar was presented with the Presidential Pride of Performance award last year.

Naheed Ansari

Date of passing: July 5, 2024

Known affectionately as Naheed Apa, the beloved chef and television personality lost her battle with cancer this year. A household name and widely regarded as a warm-hearted mentor, Ansari was a culinary icon whose popular cooking shows captivated viewers. Beyond her screen presence, Ansari served as the director at Creative Hands by Naheed Ansari, an institute for aspiring chefs.

Sardar Kamal

Date of passing: July 30, 2024

Veteran film, television, and theatre actor Sardar Kamal was laid to rest after a heart attack and will be remembered for his impeccable comedic timing. He started his career in theatre and graced the screens with memorable performances in Punjabi classics Choorian, Majajan, and Channa Sachi Muchi, as well as Urdu hits such as Diwane Tere Pyar Kay. Kamal’s theatrical genius was best showcased in his iconic play Janam Janam Ki Maili Chadar.

Haniya Aslam

Date of passing: August 12, 2024

Haniya Aslam, celebrated musician and one-half of the iconic duo Zeb and Haniya, died of a cardiac arrest aged 39, sending shockwaves in the music industry. Revered as revered as one of Pakistan’s finest musicians, Haniya was known for her work alongside her cousin Zeb Bangesh. The duo founded their band in 2007 and gained recognition with their song Paimana in Coke Studio in 2008. Haniya moved to Canada in 2014 and began her solo career in 2016, making significant contributions as a composer for films after returning to Pakistan.

Altaf Hussain

Date of passing: September 16, 2024

Noted filmmaker and producer Altaf Hussain passed away in Lahore aged 80 after succumbing to a long illness. Over the course of a career that began in 1969, Hussain was involved in over 80 films, making significant contributions to Urdu and Punjabi cinema. Notable films include Dhi Rani, Ek Pagal Si Larki, and Mard Jeene Nahi Dete.

Mazhar Ali

Date of passing: October 7, 2024

PTV star and veteran actor Mazhar Ali passed away in Houston, Texas, US, at the age of 70 after battling cardiac disease. Ali began his career in PTV, and viewers will remember him for his performances in the television dramas Afshan, Kali Deemak and Kaanch Ki Gurya.

Abid Kashmiri

Date of passing: October 11, 2024

A veteran actor and theatre artist known for his comedic talent, Abid Kashmiri passed away at the age of 74 after battling a brief illness. Kashmiri appeared in a vast spectrum of films, television dramas, and theatre plays. His memorable works include Lohari Gate, Samundar, and Teesra Kinara. He received the Nigar Award for Best Comedian for his role in the film Bazaar e Husn in 1988.

Ustad Tafu Khan

Date of passing: October 26, 2024

Renowned tabla maestro Ustad Tafu Khan left the Pakistani music community reeling after his death in Lahore aged 79. Ustad Tafu was not only celebrated for his tabla mastery but also for his vibrant personality and profound influence on music in Pakistan. His exquisite skill with the tabla inspired generations across the nation, including moving performances in Coke Studio.

Syed Furqan Haider Rizvi

Date of passing: November 10, 2024

Distinguished theatre producer Syed Furqan Haider Rizvi took his final bow in Dallas, Texas, after battling kidney disease. He will be remembered for his involvement in over 250 stage dramas. Rizvi’s most popular plays include Bakra Qiston Par, Musibbat Dar Musibbat. and Bachao Moin Akhtar.

Bapsi Sidhwa

Date of passing: December 25, 2024

One of Pakistan’s most celebrated literary figures, Bapsi Sidhwa passed away in Houston, Texas, at the age of 86. Known for her exploration of historical and cultural complexities, Sidhwa’s novels were deeply rooted in her experiences and observations. Her work explored the turbulent history of Partition and shed light on themes of identity, gender, and societal expectations.