Zia Mohyeddin to Qavi Khan and Amjad Islam Amjad: Pakistani icons we lost in 2023

The year 2023 saw the passing of several of Pakistan's most celebrated figures, whose talent and dedication enriched our lives. These respected individuals, each with their own unique contributions, left behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

With 2023 coming to an end, let's remember the special people we bid farewell to this year.

Majid Jahangir

Renowned comedian Majid Jahangir, best known for his work in the iconic PTV series 'Fifty Fifty' of the 1980s, passed away on January 10, 2023, in Lahore, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and joy.

After a long and impactful career in Pakistani comedy, his final days were marked by financial difficulties and several health issues. His contributions to countless projects remain etched in the hearts of fans.

Wasu Khan

Famed Baloch folk singer Wasu Khan, known for the song 'Apne ullu kitney terhey, ab tak na hue seedhey,', succumbed to a prolonged illness on February 24, 2023, at a Sukkur hospital. The Balochistan government stepped in to provide financial support in response to the social media criticism.

Amjad Islam Amjad

Prominent poet, playwright, and columnist, Amjad Islam Amjad, passed away on February 10, 2023. Renowned for his rich body of work, he held influential positions in Pakistan Television (PTV) and the Urdu Science Board and was honoured by the Government of Pakistan with Pride of Performance and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. 

Zia Mohyeddin

A towering figure in Pakistani arts, director, actor, and host Zia Mohyeddin bid farewell to the world on February 13, 2023, leaving behind a rich legacy in art and literature that will continued to inspire future generations.

Qavi Khan

Pakistani television icon Qavi Khan, a trailblazer whose career spanned over six decades passed away on March 6, 2023, at the age of eighty. He battled liver cancer.  His performances mesmerised audiences for generations.

Shabbir Rana

Pakistani television stalwart Shabbir Rana, who had been unwell for an extended period, passed away on May 7, 2023. Among his notable works are productions such as “Jackson Heights,” Ab Kar Meri Rafugari, and Qaid e Tanhai.

Shoaib Hashmi

Actor and playwright Shoaib Hashmi, a pioneer of PTV's golden age, breathed his last on May 15, 2023, at the age of 84. His timeless programs remain etched in viewers' hearts. He played a pivotal role in translating Western plays for local stages due to the scarcity of Urdu dramatists and published works.

Yaqoob Atif

Pakistani singer Yaqoob Atif, known for his iconic song "Pani Da Bulbla" and a career spanning both music and acting, departed on May 12, 2023, in Lahore following a cardiac arrest. He gave versatile performances in PTV dramas like "Wars" and "Andhera Ajala" and films like "Pappu Lahoria,."

Shakeel Yousuf

Legendary actor Shakeel Yousuf, whose career spanned decades passed away from a heart attack on June 29, 2023, at the age of 85.  He starred in numerous classic projects, including "Aroosa," "Uncle Urfi," and "Angan” and received the Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2015.

Shabbir Mirza

In early September 2023, Shabbir Mirza, the acclaimed actor known for his role in the PTV drama “Guest House,” succumbed to cancer. His popularity soared through his standout performance in “Guest House.”