Zia Mohyeddin, the first Pakistani legend ever to act in a Hollywood film, passed away on Monday after a brief illness. The veteran actor died at the age of 91 and was reportedly admitted to a hospital in Karachi, where he was based, after complaining of abdominal pain and fever. He was later shifted to life support after a surgical procedure.
As per a statement from his family, Zia Mohyeddin breathed his last at 6:30 am, and a funeral prayer was offered in the Defence area of Karachi.
The legendary actor was born in 1931 in Faisalabad in Pakistan’s Punjab province and etched his name in acting, broadcasting, and poetry recitation. He was also the president emeritus of the National Institute of Performing Arts in Karachi and trained a host of budding artists. He was also a writer and he wrote columns for various newspapers.
Zia Mohyeddin appeared in both Pakistani cinema and television apart from appearances in British cinema and television throughout his career. He is often lauded for his impeccable performance in 'Lawrence of Arabia' (1962) by director David Lean, followed by 'Behold the Pale Horsein' (1964) by director Fred Zinnemann and 'Immaculate Conception' (1992) by director Jamil Dehlavi.
The late actor was also awarded Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the second-highest civilian honour in Pakistan in 2012 for his contribution to the field of art. He also wrote three books 'A Carrot is a Carrot', 'Theatrics' and 'The God of My Idolatry Memories and Reflections'.
Following his demise, Mahira Khan paid heartfelt condolences. Taking to Instagram, Mahira wrote: "Lost a great today... Rest in peace, Zia Mohyeddin Sir. Thank you for the innumerable ways you have been of service to the arts of this country."
Lost a great.. Rest in peace Sir.Thank you for the innumerable ways you have been of service to the arts of this country.إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ#ZiaMohyeddin 🕊️♥️ pic.twitter.com/BljyJrjnK5— Mahira Khan (@TheMahiraKhan) February 13, 2023
Actor Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub mourned his demise as he wrote: "Today Zia Mohyeddin saheb passed away. A legend from whom I have learned so much over the years. A big part of the artist in me will always be indebted to Zia saheb for making me (and many others like me) understand so much about the nuances of performing arts.”
Image Source: Instagram