LAHORE: Veteran actor Ghayyur Akhtar passed away here on Friday. He was 69.

Akhtar had a paralysis attack three years back. He was also suffering from diabetes and blood pressure. He is survived by two sons and a widow.

Akhtar’s elder son Usama told Dawn his father’s condition deteriorated on Thursday night and he was rushed to Services Hospital. “Doctors tried their best but my father could not survive,” said Usama.

Ghayyur Akhtar did matriculation from the Iqbal High School, Garhi Shahu, and BA from the Punjab University.

He started his professional career from Radio Pakistan, Lahore, in the 1970s and got immense popularity after appearing in TV plays in the 80s.

His performances in drama serials such as Khwaja and Sons and Sona Chandi on the PTV were appreciated by the viewers.

Akhtar was particularly famous for his comedy roles. His popular plays include Waris, Path Jarh, Rahain, Aiank Wala Jin, Sitara and Afsar Bekar-i-Khas. He also performed many roles in about a dozen films and debuted in Direct Hawaldar.

Akhtar was awarded Tamgha-e-Imtaiz. The nameplate at the main gate of artist’s house reads, ‘Ghayyur Akhtar, PTV, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.

Many artistes, including Sohail Ahmed and Irfan Khoosat, visited the deceased’s house for condolence.

He was laid to rest in Mian Mir graveyard at night.

Opinion

Editorial

Out of control
Updated 19 Feb, 2025

Out of control

AS bodies continue to fall in Kurram despite a state-sanctioned ceasefire, one wonders how long local militants’...
Hollow words
19 Feb, 2025

Hollow words

IT is not uncommon for politicians to resort to the use of hyperbole in order to boost their public standing. ...
Migration matters
19 Feb, 2025

Migration matters

THE grass, it seems, did appear greener on the other side to millions of people as evidenced by the latest UN ...
Cholistan project
Updated 18 Feb, 2025

Cholistan project

GPI goals align with Pakistan's broader economic aims but the manner in which the initiative was launched raises questions.
Right to know
18 Feb, 2025

Right to know

IT is an unfortunate paradox that while on paper Pakistan has some of the most impressive right to information laws,...
Dam dispute
18 Feb, 2025

Dam dispute

THE situation in Chilas needs attention and a fair-minded approach so that it can be resolved amicably. Diamer ...