Renowned comedian Ismail Tara passes away

Karachi: The legendary TV star and comedian Ismail Tara passed away in Karachi after suffering from kidney problems. He was 73. 

Ismail Tara, who rose to prominence with his iconic role in drama Fifty Fifty, was undergoing treatment at a private hospital for the past three days after his kidneys failed and he was shifted to a ventilator.

Kidney failure is being said to be the cause of his death.

His Namaz-i-Janaza will be offered today at Pahari Masjid, on Shaheed-i-Millat Road, after Friday prayers. 

The actor is survived by his wife, a daughter and four sons. 

The actor made his name with timeless roles in numerous dramas, films and theatre. He has also been awarded several awards for Best Comedian. He later worked in many stage plays, television dramas and Lollywood films. 

Tara is five times Nigar Awards winner for best comedian in Haathi Mere Saathi, Aakhri Mujra, Munda Bigra Jaye, Chief Sahib and Deewarein.

Born in Karachi in Nov 1949, the versatile Tara started working in stage plays back in 1964 when he was in his early teens. 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed grief and sorrow over the death of famous TV and Film actor Ismail Tara. Condoling with the bereaved family, he prayed for the departed soul.

The Prime Minister said late Ismail Tara had a unique place in comedy who played an important role in popularizing comedy as an art form in the country.

Shehbaz Sharif said his acting has left an indelible impression on the minds of Pakistan Television and film viewers. He said Ismail Tara's acting especially in PTV's program Fifty Fifty will always be remembered. 

Meanwhile, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb expressed grief over the death of famous stage and TV actor Ismail Tara.

She said Ismail Tara presented great performances in many stage plays, TV dramas and films including Fifty Fifty, Rubber Band,  One Way Wicket and others.

She prayed that Allah Al-Mighty may grant the departed soul high ranks in the heaven and patience to the bereaved family