KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said that celebrated Zia Mohyeddin needs no introduction and was man with feathers galore in his hat. An actor, orator, director, author and broadcaster who ruled over his own career for more than six decades.

Speaking event `Tribute Evening Farewell to Legend Zia Mohyeddin’ organised at NAPA Auditorium

Murad Shah said that apart from being president of NAPA, he authored two books, memoir A Carrot is Carrot (2008) and God of My Idolatry, collection of essays published in 2016. “At NAPA, he trained and taught generation of Pakistani cinema, theatre and art and I am sure proteges of Mohyeddin will continue to make Pakistan proud,” he hoped.

What I loved about him was way with which he spoke mesmerising, CM said and added Zia had power to captivate his audience with his voice and words. “Sitting on those seats, I have experienced that magic as well and I was quite fortunate to have heard him several times,” he said and added teacher to many, and an inspiration to nation, Mohyeddin would always live in our hearts and Pakistan would not forget maestro or his work.

Mohyeddin, despite proficiently enjoying various disciplines, let theatre be his lifelong passion. He studied theatre at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), CM said and added that thespian marked his debut in Lawrence of Arabia in 1961, which along with ‘Behold the Pale Horse’ (1964) and ‘Bombay Talkie (1970) became Zia Mohyeddin’s most memorable performances amongst many others.

Shah said that Zia talented and hardworking orator returned to Pakistan in 1960s, hosting ‘Zia Mohyeddin Show on PTV’, in which he introduced a new style of hosting. He added that Zia also set up PIA Arts and Dance Academy the following decade which toured world and performed at Madison Square Garden and for Queen Elizabeth II.

“While I speak about Mohyeddin, I just like everyone present here am in absolute awe of his achievements,” CM said and added to sum up accolades he achieved or life he led in speech did not even come close to giving justice to his life’s work.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 27 2023

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