LAHORE : Renowned Pakistani stage and television comedian Anwar Ali has died at the age of 71 after a prolonged illness, his family confirmed on Monday. He had been battling complications related to his kidneys, lungs, and heart, and had also suffered paralysis in recent years.

Ali’s career spanned more than five decades, making him one of the most recognisable names in Pakistani theatre and comedy. Beginning in the 1970s at Lahore’s Open Air Theatre, he went on to perform in over 500 stage plays, including classics such as Paisa Bolta Hai, Nizam Saqa, No Lift, and Jahez. His sharp timing and improvisational style placed him among Pakistan’s comedy greats, often sharing the stage with legends like Amanullah, Mastana, Babu Baral, Suhail Ahmed, and Iftikhar Thakur.

On television, Anwar Ali left his mark with memorable roles in dramas such as Sona Chandi, Janjal Pura, Nishani (1979), and Khuda Bakhsh (1989). He later reached younger audiences through comedy talk shows like Khabarnaak in the 2010s, where his wit and charisma continued to shine.

Over the course of his career, he was recognised with multiple accolades, including the PTV Lifetime Achievement Award and honours from the Punjab Arts Council. Beyond his performances, Ali was celebrated as a mentor, nurturing the next generation of actors and comedians while advocating for the growth of Pakistan’s stage industry.

Tributes poured in following news of his death, with fans and fellow artists remembering him not only as a comedy powerhouse but also as a kind and humble personality. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his condolences, noting that “Anwar Ali’s contributions to theatre and television will remain unforgettable.”

Anwar Ali’s passing marks the end of an era in Pakistani comedy, leaving behind a rich legacy of laughter, mentorship, and cultural impact.

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