PESHAWAR: One of the sharpest wits and comedians, Umar Sharif, who had been in hospital for the past month and a half because of heart and kidney complications, passed away in a German hospital on Saturday, Sharif’s family has confirmed.
Sharif was shifted to the United States by air ambulance on September 28 for treatment but because of long journey and fatigue he was admitted to a hospital in Germany where he contracted pneumonia. The sources said that the air ambulance also developed technical problems. Sharif’s doctor in the United States, Dr Tariq Shehab, had said that after the actor’s dialysis in Germany, he would be transferred to the US in the light of doctors’ instructions.
However, he breathed his last today. He was 66.
Expressing grief, Shahbaz Gul, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan, said that he was deeply saddened by the demise of the actor. Shahbaz Gul said that Umar Sharif had a unique place in the world of comedy and he had won the hearts of viewers from generation to generation with his brilliant performances. He said that Umar Sharif will always live in the hearts of the people.
Umar Sharif was the uncrowned king of Pakistani theater and stage drama. He also performed in TV and movies but the main reason for his popularity is comedy stage plays. Umar Sharif has huge fans not only in Pakistan but also in India. Senior Journalist Nadeem Farooq Paracha said, “Sharif rose from a humble background in Karachi to become a giant in his field. His irreverent ‘awami’ style of comedy influenced numerous comedians, not only in Pakistan, but also India.”
Umar Sharif began his career in 1970s. His real name was Muhammad Umar. He was very much influenced by Pakistani comedian Munawar Zarif and considered him as his spiritual teacher, so he followed in his footsteps. For Sharif’s services in the entertainment industry, he was awarded many honors, including Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, the Nigar Award and the Medal of Distinction. He medical condition became a subject of national concern after he made a video appeal to Prime Minister Imran Khan. The federal government had assured help while Sindh government has sanctioned Rs40 million for his treatment.