So Long Rockstar!

Words escape me as I sit in both immense shock and excruciating pain trying to comprehend the grief that has engulfed me after the sudden demise of my immediate “bohat sakht in-charge” (as he used to playfully refer to himself), being the opposite of what he insinuated. 

His loss feels unreal, heavy, and unbearably personal.

Assistant News Editor Tahir Naseer Dogar, working at City News Network’s 24NewsHD English website, breathed his last on Wednesday afternoon and was laid to rest in Lahore on Thursday morning.

To many in the office, it may have seemed puzzling to witness how deeply attached we were to him, his juniors, his subordinates, his colleagues, me, Miss Tanazza, Miss Savera. After all, he was indeed far senior to us in age and experience, yet we found in him a kindred spirit, someone who never let hierarchy overshadow his humanity. He was adored because he never demanded reverence; he earned it through kindness, humour, and an astronomically massive, open heart.

He was simpatico in every sense. So congenial, so personable, that intimidation never found its way into his presence; had this endearing habit of patting his own back whenever he delivered exceptional work, smiling proudly, and owning his effort with joy. His jokes left us clutching our stomachs with laughter, his energy filled the room, and his presence made the workplace feel so safe and comfortable.

As his immediate subordinate, I can say this without hesitation: not once did he ever ask, let alone pressure me, to write a news story or meet deliverables. His words were always gentle and encouraging, as he used to say: “Aleezae, jitna hota hai easily aap dekh lo, baaki Rockstar hai na, sab dekh le ga,” proudly referring to himself as the “rockstar” that he was, and I his “captain, commander, jawan,” - words that I carry like a badge of honor. 

Because of him, I was able to achieve what I did. He gave me the creative freedom that few in-charges ever do, freedom that technically goes against the very nature of the job description. It was a privilege to witness his leadership so closely in this one lifetime.

I regret deeply that I never got to tell him how monumental his presence was in my life. So here, I leave this tribute instead. I hope he reads it from above, smiles, pats his shoulder once again in self-praise, and jokes the way he always did, “Jhoot na bolo, saara kaam sakht in-charge ne kiya hai. Riaz sahab, ye larki nahi karti kuch,” words that always translated into “Shabash, great work done, Aleezae.” And I would have laughed endlessly, recognizing his affection hidden within those playful remarks. 

This is my humble attempt at saying what my voice could not. 18th of February weighs heavily on my heart. Sir Tahir Naseer Dogar will always be remembered, not just for his lively nature and quirks, but for his sincerity, his empathy, and the rare ability to make people feel seen, safe, and valued. He will forever remain our hero, our chief, and our role model.

Inna Lillahi wa Inna Elayhi Raji’un.
May Allah grant him the highest ranks of all ranks in Jannah, envelop his soul in eternal peace, and replace every hardship of this transient world with comfort, light, and everlasting joy. May his afterlife be gentle, serene, and free from all pain.

Sir, you are deeply loved. You will be forever remembered.

Tanazza in tears

It is with profound sorrow that my esteemed teacher, mentor, and guiding figure who stood by me through thick and thin, filling the role of a father has passed away. 

His departure is a significant loss, leaving an unfillable void. May Allah Almighty grant him a high status in Jannah and forgive his shortcomings.

May Allah also bestow patience and strength upon his family, particularly his children, to cope with this immense loss. Aameen.

Bisma’s words

The person whose sudden demise left us all with questions. In the moment of “kash” I wish I had told him how incredible he was. I was new, hesitant to approach the other side of the desk. He welcomed me with a smile every time he passed by and asked Miss Tanazza to kindly take some time out so they all could have lunch together.

Our conversation started when I once complimented his shoes and he said so gently, “That’s what my Gazal bought for her, but she gave it to me. Well, it actually suits me, isn’t it?”

We talked for 25 minutes and he taught me that it’s never about who gets more views. It’s all about what you do. Do it with dedication, be proud of it, cherish it. Let the world call you mad but do you. Don’t just be someone’s shadow.

His last words were, “Bisma, what do I know? I’m just mere mud, but do you know what ecstasy is?”

My condolences to all the blood relations and to all his friends and dear ones, to his students Miss Tanazza, Miss Savera, to Aleezae and all those who knew him, who got to spend time with him. No one can fill that void.

What a true personality you were, Tahir Dogar Sahab.