Veteran Pakistani television and film actor Shujaat Hashmi has passed away in Lahore after a period of illness, his family confirmed.

According to relatives, the senior actor had been unwell for some time before his death.

Funeral prayers were offered at 9.00 p.m. on Friday at Jamia Naeemia Garhi Shahu, after which he would be laid to rest.

Hashmi gained widespread recognition in the 1980s through the popular Pakistan Television drama Hawayein, which brought him national fame. Over the course of his career, he also appeared in several Urdu-language films, earning praise for his versatile performances.

In recognition of his artistic contributions, the Government of Pakistan awarded him the Pride of Performance in 1994.

Members of the entertainment industry expressed grief over the actor’s passing and paid tribute to his contributions to television and cinema.

CM Punjab extends condolences

Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab, also expressed sorrow over Hashmi’s death. In a statement, she extended condolences to the bereaved family and praised the late actor’s professional legacy.

 “Shujaat Hashmi immortalised his characters through his art,” she said, paying tribute to his longstanding services to the entertainment industry.