Remembering Zia Mohyeddin

Two years have passed since the legendary Zia Mohyeddin's passing, yet his legacy remains deeply embedded in Pakistan's cultural and literary landscape. The master thespian, broadcaster, orator, and author passed away on February 13, 2023, in Karachi at the age of 91, leaving behind a towering body of work spanning theatre, television, and film.

Remembering Mohyeddin, renowned playwright Asghar Nadeem Sayed told The Express Tribune, "Zia Mohyeddin was a man with a remarkable command over various disciplines. At any given moment, he was contributing to literature, the industry, and the arts. His most iconic work remains The Zia Mohyeddin Show for PTV, in which I also participated. He was a great teacher who devoted most of his life to serving the arts."

Muneeza Hashmi, TV and literary personality, emphasised his stage presence and work ethic. "Zia Mohyeddin was a towering figure, and it is difficult to put his personality into words. I personally witnessed his rehearsals and was deeply impressed by his dedication. Even in his last days, he remained committed to his work. The way he commanded the stage was mesmerising - when he stood to perform, the audience was awestruck by his presence and mastery. He reached the pinnacle of his craft, and those associated with the arts learned immensely from him."

Dr Sugra Sadaf, former Director General of the Pakistan Institute of Language, Art, and Culture, highlighted Mohyeddin's unparalleled contribution to literature and oration. "Zia Mohyeddin had a unique place in our culture and literature, playing an exemplary role in promoting both. God gifted him with a beautiful voice and an exceptional speaking style, which added a new dimension to literature. Even people with little interest in reading were drawn to his recitations," she said.

Sadaf added, "I have seen many who kept cassettes of his readings in their cars, cherishing the sound of his voice. Whenever I visited Karachi for literary conferences, I witnessed the public's eagerness to hear him speak."

Born on June 20, 1931, in Lyallpur – modern-day Faisalabad – Mohyeddin spent his early life in Kasur and Lahore. After receiving his training from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London from 1953 to 1956, he made his film debut with Lawrence of Arabia in 1962. The film saw him as Tafas – the Arab guide who is shot by Omar Sharif for drinking water from the wrong well.