Renowned Pakistani artist Qavi Khan passed away on Sunday in Canada at the age of 80. The actor passed away after a brief illness according to media reports.
Khan was the recipient of Pride of Performance and Sitara-e-Imtiaz from the Government of Pakistan in recognition of his services. Khan was under treatment in Canada for a Kidney-related disease.
He started his career as the child star of Radio Pakistan from Peshawar. In 1964, he started working for Pakistan Television, becoming one of the early stars of PTV. Qavi Khan started off with Lakhon Mein Aik, whereas Andhera Ujala earned him immense fame across Pakistan. His other TV plays include Fishaar, Lahori Gate, Muthi Bhar Matti, Bait¬yaan, Cinderella, and Durr-i-Shahwar.
Pakistani celebrities and famous figures expressed condolence for his passing away. Former prime minister Imran Khan also expressed condolences on his death. “Saddened to learn of the passing of famous actor Qavi Khan. My prayers & condolences go to his family,” the PTI chairman tweeted after learning about the actor’s death.
Singer Ali Zafar said, “The great Qavi Khan sahab is no more. Though I never had the honor to work with him, his exemplary professionalism and humility were praised by everyone who had the privilege. He was an institution in himself and deserves a state funeral. May he rest in peace. #QaviKhan.”
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“What terrible news…Qavi Khan sahib’s stature in the industry will remain unmatched. For several of us, he was a living institution to learn not just about acting but about life too. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah tul Firdous. Aameen,” said actor Adnan Siddiqui.
“To the legend Qavi Khan sahab. He was not just impeccable in his craft but you learned so much being in his company. Truly a great loss,” said the Kala Doriya actor Osman Khalid Butt.