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The renowned Zia Mohyeddin was a celebrated performer and considered to be one of the legends during his lifetime. Unfortunately, he left us all today at the age of 91. The beloved Zia Mohyeddin was an influential figure in the performing arts industry and will be forever remembered for his impeccable poetry recitation.
Sources from (NAPA) confirmed that Mohyeddin was admitted to the intensive care unit of a hospital prior to his death. He was President Emeritus of NAPA at the time of his passing.
The late British Pakistani is known for his remarkable skills in compering, broadcasting, poetry, prose recitation, acting, and theatre direction. Additionally, he was a theatre guide and mentored hundreds of students during the course of his career.
Born in Faisalabad on June 20, 1931, Mohyeddin acquired his education at Government College, Lahore. Later on, he went on to attend the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London. Upon returning to Pakistan, he demonstrated his remarkable capabilities in producing, directing, and acting in several plays, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s entertainment industry.
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In 1962, the actor played a role in a Hollywood movie named ‘’Lawrence of Arabia’’ directed by renowned filmmaker David Lean. Two years later, he had a part in a movie called ‘’Behold the Pale Horse’’ directed by Fred Zinnemann. In 1992, he did his last Hollywood movie project with acclaimed director Jamil Dehlavi, the movie’s name was ‘’Immaculate Conception’’.
Zia Mohyeddin was also known for his numerous appearances in television series. In 1970, he returned to Pakistan and made an indelible mark on the country’s television landscape by hosting the ‘’legendary Zia Mohyeddin Show’’ on PTV. Subsequently, he accepted the post of Director at the PIA Arts Academy.
Unfortunately, his first lead role in the 1970 Pakistani film ‘’Mujrim Kaun’’ did not live up to expectations, despite its interesting plot and soundtrack.
Fifteen years later, in 2005, he set up the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) in Karachi, which continues to be a beacon of light for aspiring artists and performers in the country.
In 2012, Zia Mohyeddin was bestowed with the prestigious Hilal-i-Imtiaz for his outstanding contributions to the field of Art for both (Acting/Comparing). It is a testament to his legacy that he continues to inspire generations of creatives in Pakistan. He was also the author of three books: A Carrot is a Carrot, Theatrics, and The God of My Idolatry Memories and Reflections.
On Monday, 13 February 2023, members of the public are invited to pay their last respects at the funeral prayers for the late thespian in Defence Phase 8 at Imam Bargah Yasrab after Zuhr.
Zia was a beloved figure in the world of theatre, and his impact and legacy will continue to be remembered by his fans and those who had the privilege of working with him.
