November 23, 2017, marks the 34th death anniversary of acting legend Waheed Murad. Dubbed as the “Chocolate Hero” of his times, the evergreen star’s charming expressions and tender voice will be remembered for times to come by all those who adored him. Although decades have elapsed since his passing, Murad continues to be remembered and loved.
Murad began his career in acting in 1962 on the insistence of late actor Mohammad Ali’s wife Zeba Begum and has starred in almost 125 films. To honour and remember the late actor, his most-popular projects will be screened in cinemas across Lahore this week, while his fans will be coming together at Lakshmi Chowk to cut a cake and remember him. Actors and filmmakers will also be holding discussions on Murad’s personal and professional life.
“Every year we miss Waheed sir on his death anniversary and arrange his films shows at cinemas in Lahore. This year, his blockbusters will be screened as well and a programme will also be held in honour of his death anniversary,” said senior film producer Chaudhry Ejaz Kamran.
Born in Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan, Waheed Murad did his Bachelors from the SM Arts College Karachi, and then a masters in English literature from the University of Karachi. Belonging to a family who was already involved in the film industry, Murad started his career as a producer. He first joined Film Art Productions, a company established by his father Nasar Murad, and made his production debut with Insaan Badalta Hai.
However, he soon ventured into acting and started his film career as a cameo in the film Saathi when he was only 21 years old. His naughty facial gestures, bold romanticism and alluring performance style during picturisation of songs made him an instant hit amongst the masses.
During his career, Murad was cast opposite all top heroines of his time including Shabnam, Durdana Rahman, Barbara Sharif and Shamim Ara.
His film Armaan, which was also produced by him, made a pivotal impact on the sub-continental film industry. Murad mesmerised the Pakistani nation during the 1960s and 1970s more than anyone before or after and is considered to be the golden star of Pakistan’s silver screen.
Murad has 32 film awards to his credit and 27 years after his death, in November 2010, then president Asif Ali Zardari awarded him the Sitara-e-Imtiaz for his numerous efforts in the Pakistan film industry.