Pakistani music stars who deceased at age 54
Here are 8 famous musicians from Pakistan died at 54:
Wasim Raja
Wasim Raja (July 3, 1952 Multan-August 23, 2006 Marlow) was a Pakistani cricketer.
Raja began his cricket career as a left-arm spinner but later switched to batting and played as a top-order batsman for the Pakistan cricket team. In his international career, he played 57 test matches and 54 One Day Internationals (ODIs). Raja was known for his stylish and elegant batting, and he was also a brilliant fielder.
After his cricketing career, Raja went on to become a cricket commentator and was known for his insightful and engaging commentary. He was also a qualified barrister and practiced law in London.
Raja's death came as a shock to the cricketing community, and he was mourned by fans and fellow cricketers around the world. He was remembered as a talented batsman and a great ambassador for Pakistani cricket.
Born in Multan, Punjab, Pakistan, Wasim Raja was one of six brothers, four of whom played cricket at some level. He made his test debut for Pakistan against England in 1973 and was a regular member of the team until his retirement in 1985. Raja's highest Test score was 125 not out against England at Lord's in 1978. He was also the first batsman to score a century in a one day international in Sharjah.
Apart from his international career, Raja played county cricket in England for many years. He played first-class cricket for Sussex, and later for Essex and Durham, scoring thousands of runs and taking wickets as well. After retiring from cricket, he worked as a coach and was instrumental in shaping the career of Inzamam-ul-Haq, who went on to become one of Pakistan's all-time greats.
Raja was married to a British woman, who he met during his county cricket days. They had three children together. In addition to cricket and law, Raja was also a keen golfer and enjoyed playing the sport in his spare time.
Today, the Wasim Raja Memorial Cup is held annually in Pakistan in his honor. The tournament is for teams representing regions of Pakistan and has been held since 2009. The aim of the tournament is to provide a platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent and for the revival of cricket in Pakistan.
Throughout his career, Wasim Raja was widely respected for his sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct on and off the field. He was known for his ability to remain calm under pressure and his exceptional talent as a team player. His experience in both international and county cricket made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for. As a commentator, he provided a unique perspective on the game and was always ready to share his knowledge with his audience. In addition to his contributions to cricket, Raja was also actively involved in social and charity work. He supported various causes, including the education of underprivileged children and the promotion of health and fitness in Pakistan. His untimely death was a loss not only for the cricketing community but also for those who knew him as a kind and generous human being. Despite his departure, his legacy lives on, both through the annual cricket tournament held in his honor and the many fond memories of his extraordinary career.
He died caused by myocardial infarction.
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Benazir Bhutto
Benazir Bhutto (June 21, 1953 Karachi-December 27, 2007 Rawalpindi) also known as بھٹو بينظير, First lady Benazir Bhutto or Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was a Pakistani politician. She had three children, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari and Asifa Bhutto Zardari.
Bhutto was the first woman to be elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, serving two non-consecutive terms from 1988-1990 and then from 1993-1996. She was a prominent advocate for women's rights and democracy in Pakistan, working to advance the cause of democracy despite being persecuted and imprisoned by military dictatorships. Bhutto was also known for her strong stance against Islamic extremism, and faced numerous assassination attempts throughout her career as a result. She was assassinated in a suicide attack while campaigning for the 2008 Pakistani general election. The attack shocked the world and led to widespread protests and violence in Pakistan. Her death is mourned to this day, and she remains an iconic figure in Pakistani politics.
In addition to her political career, Bhutto was also a prolific author, publishing several books including her autobiography "Daughter of the East". She was educated at Harvard University and the University of Oxford, where she studied politics, philosophy, and economics. Bhutto came from a politically active family, with her father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto also serving as Prime Minister of Pakistan before being overthrown in a military coup. Despite facing opposition and criticism for the legacy of her family's political history, Bhutto remained a strong and inspirational leader for many in Pakistan and around the world. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence politics in Pakistan, particularly in the realm of women's empowerment and democracy.
Benazir Bhutto's family had a long and complicated history in Pakistani politics. Her grandfather had helped found the All-India Muslim League, while her father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto had served as president and prime minister of Pakistan, before he was overthrown in a 1977 military coup. In 1984, Benazir's brother Shahnawaz was also found dead under mysterious circumstances in France, which some believe was an assassination in retaliation for their family's political activities.
Despite these challenges, Bhutto remained determined to fight for democracy and women's rights in Pakistan. She founded the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in 1967, while still a student at Oxford, and later became its chairperson following her father's death in 1979. Her rise to power was not without its challenges, however. She was removed from office in 1990 by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan on charges of corruption, and was again dismissed in 1996, this time by President Farooq Leghari.
Bhutto spent much of her career in and out of exile, facing accusations of corruption and other crimes. She returned to Pakistan in 2007, after President Pervez Musharraf granted her amnesty on the corruption charges, and began campaigning for the upcoming general election. However, her life was cut short when she was assassinated in a suicide attack in Rawalpindi on December 27, 2007, while campaigning for the PPP. The identity of the attackers remains unknown, and there is still debate in Pakistan about who was responsible for Bhutto's death.
In addition to her political achievements, Bhutto was also known for her love of the arts and literature. She was an accomplished poet, and her works were published in several collections. She was also fluent in several languages, including English, Urdu, and French. Her legacy continues to inspire people around the world, and Pakistanis maintain a deep respect and admiration for her contributions to their country.
She died caused by assassination.
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Mian Hayaud Din
Mian Hayaud Din (July 2, 1910 Peshawar-May 20, 1965 Cairo) was a Pakistani personality.
Mian Hayaud Din was a prominent politician, businessman, and philanthropist of his time. He began his political career as a member of the All India Muslim League and actively participated in the Pakistan Movement. After the creation of Pakistan, he served as a member of the National Assembly and as a member of the Constituent Assembly. Throughout his career, he remained committed to the welfare of his country and its people.
Apart from his political activities, Mian Hayaud Din was a successful businessman and owned several textile mills in Pakistan. He was also a generous philanthropist and contributed to many charitable causes, including the establishment of hospitals, schools, and welfare organizations.
Unfortunately, Mian Hayaud Din's life was cut short due to a tragic aviation accident or incident. He was on his way to Cairo to attend a meeting of the Islamic Development Bank as a representative of Pakistan when the plane he was traveling in crashed. His untimely demise was a great loss to the country and the people he served with dedication and commitment.
Mian Hayaud Din was born in a renowned spiritual family of Peshawar in 1910. He received his early education from his father, who was a great scholar and spiritual leader. Later, Mian Hayaud Din went to Aligarh Muslim University and graduated with a degree in Law.
He played a significant role in the Pakistan Movement and was a close associate of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Mian Hayaud Din actively participated in the Round Table Conferences in London and ardently advocated for the rights of Muslims in India.
After the creation of Pakistan, Mian Hayaud Din served as a member of the National Assembly and played an active role in the formulation of the country's constitution. He was also a member of the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan and played a pivotal role in the drafting of Pakistan's Objectives Resolution.
Apart from his political and social contributions, Mian Hayaud Din also founded the Hayaud Din Research Institute in Peshawar. He was a passionate promoter of education and established several schools and colleges, helping to improve the literacy rate in the region.
In recognition of his contributions to society, Mian Hayaud Din was awarded the Sitara-e-Pakistan, the highest civilian award in Pakistan. His name is still remembered with reverence in the political and social circles of Pakistan.
After Mian Hayaud Din's passing, the Hayaud Din Hostel at Peshawar University was renamed the Mian Hayaud Din Hall in his honor, to recognize his contributions to education. His philanthropic legacy continued after his death, as his family set up the Mian Hayaud Din Trust to further his charitable works, especially in the fields of education, healthcare, and rural development. The trust runs several institutions, including schools and hospitals, to provide quality education and medical care to the people of Pakistan. Mian Hayaud Din's life serves as an inspiration to many aspiring politicians, businessmen, and philanthropists in Pakistan, who continue to follow in his footsteps and emulate his commitment to public service.
He died as a result of aviation accident or incident.
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Niaz Ahmed
Niaz Ahmed (November 11, 1945-April 12, 2000) was a Pakistani personality.
He was known for his contributions in the field of education and journalism. Ahmed was a renowned writer and poet, having authored several books and articles in various newspapers and magazines. He was also an avid advocate for human rights and democracy in Pakistan.
Ahmed was born in Lahore and received his early education from local schools before pursuing higher studies in the United States. He obtained a Master's degree in English Literature from the University of Michigan and later went on to become a professor of English at various universities in Pakistan.
Ahmed was the founding member of several leading educational institutions in Pakistan, including the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Beaconhouse National University, and the National College of Arts. His contributions in the field of education helped transform the landscape of higher education in Pakistan by introducing modern teaching methodologies and promoting research-based learning.
Ahmed was a prolific writer, having published several books, including "The Heart Divided", "The Road Ahead", and "Beyond Endurance". He was also a regular contributor to leading newspapers and magazines in Pakistan.
Ahmed's commitment to human rights and democratic values made him a leading voice of dissent during times of political turmoil in Pakistan. He was a vocal critic of military regimes and played a key role in advocating for political freedoms during the Zia-ul-Haq dictatorship in the 1980s.
Ahmed's contributions to the fields of education, journalism, and human rights have left a lasting impact on Pakistan's intellectual and political landscape.
In addition to his contributions in education, writing, and advocacy, Niaz Ahmed was also known for his leadership and administrative skills. He served as the Vice-Chancellor of the Punjab University and was instrumental in introducing major reforms in the university's administration, curriculum, and examination system. Ahmed's efforts towards making higher education accessible and affordable to all sections of the society were widely acknowledged in Pakistan and abroad.
Ahmed received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to education and journalism, including the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest civilian awards. He was also awarded the Fulbright Scholarship for his contributions to promoting educational exchange between Pakistan and the United States.
Ahmed's untimely death in 2000 was mourned by people from all walks of life in Pakistan. His legacy continues to inspire young people in Pakistan and around the world to pursue knowledge, justice, and democracy.
Ahmed's legacy also includes his activism in promoting gender equality in Pakistan. He was a strong supporter of women's rights and advocated for their empowerment through education and social reforms.Ahmed was married to the famous Pakistani novelist Bapsi Sidhwa, and the couple had three children. Sidhwa has mentioned in several interviews that her husband played a crucial role in supporting her writing career and nurturing her talent.Ahmed's influence on the education sector in Pakistan can be seen through the numerous universities and institutions that he helped establish. Many of his students have gone on to become notable figures in various fields in Pakistan and abroad.Ahmed's work and contributions continue to be remembered and celebrated in Pakistan. In 2013, the Lahore University of Management Sciences established the Niaz Ahmed Endowed Scholarship Fund to provide financial aid to deserving students pursuing higher education.
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Ghulam Muhammad Qasir
Ghulam Muhammad Qasir (September 4, 1944 Paharpur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-February 20, 1999 Peshawar) was a Pakistani writer.
He was known for his work in the Pashto language and has written several books and major works, including poetry, plays, and translations of Western literature into Pashto. Qasir was also a prominent critic of political and social issues affecting Pashtuns and Pakistan as a whole. He received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to Pashto literature, including the prestigious National Literary Award in 1998. Despite facing censorship and persecution by the government for his views, Qasir continued to write and advocate for the rights of the Pashtun people until his untimely death.
Qasir was born into a Pashtun family in the village of Paharpur in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. He received his early education at a local school before moving to Peshawar for higher studies. Qasir obtained a Master's degree in Pashto from the University of Peshawar and later went on to complete his PhD in Comparative Literature.
Qasir began his writing career as a poet and published his first collection of poems, "Khamakha Dil" in 1968. He also wrote several plays, including "Mukhtalif" and "Jange Saqafat," which were staged in different parts of the country. Qasir's translation of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" into Pashto is considered one of his major accomplishments.
In addition to his literary work, Qasir was a vocal activist for Pashtun rights. He used his writing to expose inequalities and injustices faced by Pashtuns in Pakistan and advocated for their inclusion in national politics and decision-making processes.
Qasir's fearless critique of the Pakistani government's policies towards Pashtuns often drew the ire of authorities. He was arrested several times, his books were banned, and he was subjected to harassment and intimidation. Despite this, Qasir refused to be silenced and continued to speak out against oppression and inequality until his death in 1999.
Today, Qasir is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Pashto literature and an icon of resistance against oppression.
Qasir's work and contributions to Pashto literature have been celebrated even after his death. A number of literary and cultural organizations have been established in his honor. The Ghulam Muhammad Qasir Foundation was established in 2003 to promote Pashto literature and culture, and to support aspiring Pashto writers. In 2014, a memorial was erected in his honor in Peshawar's Hayatabad area. The memorial includes a bust of Qasir and a plaque highlighting his contributions to literature and Pashtun rights activism.
Qasir's work has also been the subject of literary research and academic studies. His plays and translations have been studied in universities in Pakistan and abroad. Qasir's poetry has been widely anthologized, and his verse has been set to music and performed by popular Pashto singers.
Qasir's legacy as a fearless writer and activist continues to inspire younger generations of Pashtuns. His literary and political contributions have not only enriched Pashto literature, but have also given voice to the marginalized Pashtun community in Pakistan.
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Mujaddid Ahmed Ijaz
Mujaddid Ahmed Ijaz (June 12, 1937 Lahore-April 5, 1992 Shawsville) was a Pakistani personality. His child is Mansoor Ijaz.
Mujaddid Ahmed Ijaz was a renowned Pakistani nuclear physicist and a mathematician. He served as a professor at the Quaid-e-Azam University, and was a founding member of the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Italy. He made significant contributions to the field of nuclear physics and was recognized for his outstanding research work in the development of nuclear technology in Pakistan. Ijaz was also a recipient of several awards, including the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, one of the highest civilian honors in Pakistan. Despite his professional success, Ijaz was known for his humility and kindness towards others. His legacy continues to live on through his son Mansoor Ijaz, who is a successful businessman and a well-known political commentator.
Mujaddid Ahmed Ijaz's contributions to science and technology have had a lasting impact on Pakistan's nuclear field. He played a key role in establishing the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and was one of the key scientists involved in the country's nuclear weapons program. Ijaz was instrumental in designing and developing Pakistan's first-ever nuclear reactor, known as the Pakistan Research Reactor 1 (PARR-1), which was completed in 1965.
In addition to his academic and scientific pursuits, Ijaz was also actively involved in philanthropy and community service. He was a board member of the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, which was established by former Pakistani cricket captain Imran Khan in memory of his mother. Ijaz was passionate about education and believed in the importance of providing access to quality education for all. As a result, he founded the Ijaz Foundation, which provides scholarships and financial assistance to underprivileged students in Pakistan.
Ijaz's untimely death in 1992 was a great loss to the scientific community in Pakistan and beyond. However, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers, who strive to build on the work he started and carry forward his vision of progress and innovation.
In addition to his accomplishments in science and philanthropy, Mujaddid Ahmed Ijaz was also a scholar and lover of literature. He wrote extensively on Urdu poetry and literary criticism, and was considered one of the leading experts in the field. His book "Urdu Adab ki Tashkeel-e-Jadeed" is a seminal work on the development of modern Urdu literature. Ijaz was also a supporter of the arts and was actively involved in promoting Pakistani culture and traditional music. He was a patron of the Academy of Performing Arts in Lahore and helped establish the National College of Arts in the city. Ijaz's multi-faceted persona and contributions have made him a renowned figure, not just in Pakistan but internationally as well. His life is a testament to the power of education, philanthropy, and the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of humanity.
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Khadija Mastoor
Khadija Mastoor (December 11, 1927 Bareilly-April 5, 1982) was a Pakistani writer.
She was best known for her novel "Aangan" which was based on her own family history and is considered a classic in Urdu literature. Mastoor was also known for her feminist views and often wrote about the struggles of women in Pakistani society. In addition to "Aangan", Mastoor authored several other novels including "Zeenat", "Thakay Karda" and "Kamaan Ka Phool". Her writing style was characterized by its simple prose and focus on everyday life. Mastoor's contribution to Urdu literature has been widely recognized and celebrated, and she is remembered as one of Pakistan's most prominent female writers.
Mastoor grew up in a family of writers and intellectuals, and was encouraged to pursue her passion for writing from a young age. She attended Aligarh Muslim University, where she studied English literature, before moving to Lahore with her family after the partition of India. In Lahore, she worked as a journalist and editor for several years before turning to full-time writing.
Mastoor's work often explored the lives of ordinary people, particularly women, in a changing society. Her writing was marked by a deep sense of realism and empathy, as well as a commitment to social justice. She was a vocal advocate for women's rights, and her work often challenged traditional gender roles.
In addition to her literary work, Mastoor was actively involved in social and political movements in Pakistan. She was a member of the Progressive Writers' Association and worked closely with other writers and activists to promote progressive ideas and social change.
Mastoor's legacy continues to inspire generations of writers in Pakistan and beyond. Her writing remains popular and widely read, and her contribution to Urdu literature is widely recognized as a groundbreaking achievement for women's writing in the region.
Despite her success as a writer, Mastoor faced criticism from conservative elements in Pakistani society for her progressive views and subject matter. She was even accused of promoting immorality through her writing, but these allegations did not diminish her popularity. In fact, her work continued to resonate with readers across generations and cultural backgrounds.
Mastoor's impact on literature and society went beyond her writing. She mentored young writers and was a source of inspiration for many women who saw her as a role model for breaking down barriers in a male-dominated society. She also helped create a space for women's voices in Pakistani literature, paving the way for future generations to come.
Sadly, Mastoor died at a young age of 54 due to cancer, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and influence writers worldwide. Her legacy remains a testimony to the power of writing in a society where women's voices are often silenced, and her contributions have helped pave the way for a more inclusive and progressive society.
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Abdul Khaliq
Abdul Khaliq (November 29, 1933-March 10, 1988 Rawalpindi) was a Pakistani personality.
He was widely regarded as one of the greatest sprinters in the history of Pakistan and South Asia. Abdul Khaliq earned several accolades and honors for his outstanding athletic achievements. He brought home several gold medals from various international events, including the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games.
Khaliq was known for his exceptional speed and was nicknamed the 'Flying Bird' due to his swift running style. He won his first international medal in 1954 at the Asian Games held in Manila, where he won a bronze in the 100 meters. He created history at the Commonwealth Games held in Cardiff in 1958 when he won a gold medal in the 100 meters, making him the first Pakistani athlete to win a gold medal at an international event.
Abdul Khaliq was honored with numerous awards, including the Pride of Performance award by the President of Pakistan. He retired from competitive athletics in 1962 but continued to flourish as a sports administrator and coach. He passed away in 1988, but his legacy as a trailblazer for Pakistani athletics continues to inspire generations of athletes in the country.
Throughout his illustrious career, Abdul Khaliq broke several national and international records in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meters relay. He also participated in the 1960 Olympics in Rome but was unable to secure a medal. Apart from his sporting achievements, Khaliq was known for his humble and modest personality. He was a man of great discipline who dedicated his life to promoting sports in Pakistan. After retiring from competitive athletics, Khaliq served as the Director of Sports for the Punjab province and played a key role in the development of sports infrastructure in the region. He also coached several young athletes and helped them achieve their dreams of representing Pakistan at the international level. Abdul Khaliq remains a revered figure in Pakistani sports history and his contributions to the field continue to inspire many.
In addition to his athletic and administrative contributions, Abdul Khaliq was also active in social causes. He was deeply committed to education and established the Abdul Khaliq Education Trust to provide scholarships and educational opportunities to underprivileged students. He believed that education could transform society and was passionate about ensuring access to education for all.
Abdul Khaliq's remarkable achievements on the track and in sports administration earned him a prominent place in Pakistani sports history. He is remembered as a national icon and role model for aspiring athletes across the country. His legacy continues to be celebrated through various sporting events and initiatives in Pakistan, and his remarkable story serves as a reminder of the power of discipline, determination, and hard work in achieving one's goals.
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