RAWALPINDI: A veteran Pakistani actor Sohail Asghar passed away in Karachi on Saturday after battling a prolonged illness, confirmed his family to local media. He was 67.
Born in Lahore in 1954, the legendary Pakistani artist launched his career from Radio Pakistan in 1978 and bedazzled people with his performances on television and stage.
Asghar, whose funeral will be held in Karachi on Sunday, is widely remembered for his work in small screen plays like “Khuda ki Basti” and “Kajal Ghar.” He made his big screen debut from “Murad” in 2003 and played his last television role in “Khafa Khafa Zindagi” in 2018.
Notable Pakistani voices and fellow entertainers turned to social media to pay tribute to the late actor after the announcement of his death.
Senator Faisal Javed Khan said in a Twitter post he was saddened to hear about Asghar’s demise.
“Such a fine actor he was,” he added. “A huge loss to our ent[ertainment] industry.”

Actor Mohib Mirza expressed his grief at Asghar’s loss, calling the veteran actor his “teacher.”
“Saddened by your demise, worked in so many projects with you and you taught me so much. Farewell my teacher, rest in peace,” he wrote.

BBC sports correspondent Rasheed Shakoor shared an image of him with Asghar and another actor Shafi Muhammad, writing: “Memorable pic with legendary actors late Shafi Mohd and late Sohail Asghar during Chand Girhan 1991. Met them regularly on various occasions. Allah bless their souls. They are not only great performers but also nice persons.”

Actor Mansha Pasha also took to Twitter, writing condolences to Asghar’s family.
“Many condolences to the family of Sohail Asghar Sahab,” she said. “Just heard the tragic news. We seem to be losing so many wonderful artists lately.”

Actor and television host Dino Ali thanked Asghar for his work and influence on the industry, writing: “RIP #sohailAsghar Sahab — you will be missed — thank you for all the incredible performances.”