Celebrated comedian Umer Sharif set to fly abroad

Sindh government releases Rs40m for renowned artist's treatment

KARACHI:

Veteran actor and comedian Umer Sharif, who has been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the metropolis, was deemed fit to fly abroad for further treatment on Tuesday.

"I am proud of my husband, Dr Syed Tariq Shahab, who has agreed to perform the high risk procedure and is helping the family in his transfer arrangements to America. I have requested him to do all he can to help Umer Sharif Sahib recover from this illness, [sic]" posted the country's famed actress, Reema Khan, on Instagram, informing netizens of the beloved comedian's treatment plan.

Meanwhile, the Sindh government approved the release of Rs40 million for Sharif's treatment. The funds are to be used to cover the expense of an air ambulance and other related costs for Sharif's treatment abroad, stated the order issued by the provincial finance department, a copy of which is available with The Express Tribune.

"We are committed to bearing the expenses of Omer Sharif Sahib's treatment expenditures," said Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab, speaking to The Express Tribune. He confirmed that the funds have been released and transferred to the family.

It was also learnt that Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, who is currently in the United States of America (USA) and Wahab personally approached the US Consulate in Karachi for visa. "I hope the visa will be given to him within next three to four days," said Wahab.

While the family has appreciated the support and well wishes for the legendary actor and comedian they have also asked the people to respect the senior artist's privacy.

Speculation on social media and the circulation of various photos prompted Sharif's wife, Zareen Omer, via her social media account said that: "It's so sad to hear and see people sharing private pictures from the hospital. I would like to state and request that just for some likes and share don't share anything without confirmation Please! [sic]"

She also said that her husband was performing well and was fit to fly through air ambulance. "I, Zareen Omer would like to sincerely thank Federal government for doing the visa process as fast as possible and on the other hand would like to thank Sindh government, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Murtaza Wahab, and Syed Murad Ali Shah for bearing the expense of air Ambulance.[sic]"

Published in The Express Tribune, September 15^th, 2021..