Culture minister visits ailing artists

Veteran actor battles cancer while eminent painter also faces health complications

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Jamal Shah paid a visit to the residences of living legendry artists Ustad Bashir Ahmed and Firdous Jamal to inquire about their health conditions.

Firdous Jamal, a veteran actor is a cancer survivor and is currently undergoing treatment while Ustad Bashir Ahmed, an eminent miniature painter, is also facing health complications.

During the visit, Jamal Shah, who himself is a renowned actor, film producer, and sculptor said he was happy and proud of the two Icons who contributed a lot to the country’s miniature painting, film, and drama industry. He said the entire nation is proud of the contributions made by Ustad Bashir Ahmed and Firdous Jamal.

Ustad Bashir Ahmed stands as the most prolific and consequential figure among miniature artists, having undertaken the remarkable task of revitalising and advancing the art of miniature painting single-handedly.

His efforts played an instrumental role in elevating miniature paintings as a specialised subject at the National College of Arts (NCA).

Employing the original techniques of Persian and Mughal miniatures, he has ventured into uncharted territories, boldly challenging conventional norms to convey the essence of 'miniature' not merely through surface embellishment but also through tone and innovative materials.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, August 30^th, 2023.