Veteran actor Shujaat Hashmi passes away

Pakistani showbiz is in mourning after the sad news that veteran actor Shujaat Hashmi, a cherished name in television and film, has passed away.

According to reports, his family confirmed that his funeral prayer (Namaz‑e‑Janazah) will be held at Jamiat Naeema tonight at 9 pm, allowing fans and colleagues a final opportunity to pay their respects.

The seasoned performer had been battling illness for some time, and word of his death has deeply saddened fans and fellow artists across the country. Hashmi was widely recognized as one of the stalwarts of Pakistani entertainment.

His career began in the mid-1970s, where he first made his mark in television under the direction of veteran producer Yawar Hayat with the drama Kuhar.

However, it was his memorable role as Mauladad in the hit PTV serial Waris (1979) that truly cemented his popularity among audiences.

He also appeared in the notable Urdu film Khaak aur Khoon during the same year, showcasing his versatility across genres.

Throughout his long career, Hashmi demonstrated remarkable dedication to his craft and contributed to numerous productions that are still remembered fondly by viewers.

His performances were marked by a natural screen presence and solid acting skills that helped elevate many of the projects he was a part of.

In recognition of his contributions to the arts, the Government of Pakistan awarded him the Pride of Performance Award in 1994, one of the country’s highest honors for excellence in the field.

While details of his illness and final days have not been widely shared.

His memorable portrayal in Waris remains part of Pakistan’s television heritage, and his body of work continues to resonate with audiences old and new.

As friends, family and fans gather to honour his memory, the entertainment community reflects on a career that spanned decades and helped shape the narrative of Pakistani drama and cinema.