PHOTO: FILE
LAHORE: Fans and theatre artists in Lahore celebrated the death anniversary of legendary stage actor and comedian Ayub Akhtar, better known by his stage name Babu Baral, today. While the comedian passed away seven years ago on April 16, 2011, his loved ones fondly remember him as one of the greatest actors in the history of commercial stage shows.
Some believe that no other actor can come close to the level of Babu’s skills and that his death marked the end of the golden era of commercial stage. Senior stage actor Shiba Butt spoke of the late artist’s unmatched talent. She said, “Babu was a legendary actor. He was truly the ‘king of stage’ and ruled over it whenever he performed.”
The funny man they called Babu Baral
Butt added that spectators now attend stage shows to only watch the dances but while Babu was alive, people would come to watch his comedic performance. “Babu’s death was a huge loss for the entire theatre community.” She also mentioned that the commercial stage is already suffering and in order for it to survive, theatre artists should learn from Babu’s acting style. According to her, “There was only one Babu Baral.”
Goshi Khan, a stage show director and actor, also had a few words to say about Babu. “I worked a lot with Babu and theatre halls were always crowded whenever he was performing. Commercial stage was also at its peak during that time.” Khan mentioned Babu performed in different cities of Pakistan and internationally, adding that a huge number of people came to witness the magic he created on stage. “I request the government to celebrate great actors and their death anniversaries by organising event as these people are heroes for the country.”
PHOTO: APPDuring his theatre career of two decades, Babu worked in countless plays. He was the lead actor in various stage hits such as Shirtiya Mitthay and Bukhar Haath Bataira. Senior stage actor, Ashraf Rahi also sang praises for Babu. He shared, “Babu was enriched with natural talent that was necessary for stage actors. He was a versatile actor with a voice perfect for stage.”
Comedian Babu Baral’s family struck with poverty
Babu started his career in Gujranwala in 1982. His passion for theatre brought him to Lahore and the actor was soon on a roll. He was at the peak of his career when he fell ill in 2010. Speaking about this, Rahi painfully expressed, “It’s a tragedy that Babu’s last few days of live were so painful. He died in poverty and I believe that artists such as him, who give their life to public service, should be rightfully recognised and acknowledged.”
He concluded, “Babu died at a young age but proved his talent in a short amount of time that is an asset to the history of theatre.” Due to his ailment and stricken by poverty, Babu passed away at the age of 47.
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