Veteran director Hasan Askari passed away in Lahore

Veteran filmmaker Hasan Askari died on Monday in Lahore after a battle with cancer, local media reported. The esteemed director breathed his last at the age of 78 at Shaikh Zayed Hospital. The funeral prayer, according to the media, will be held at his residence.

Askari, who enjoyed a distinguished career in the film industry spanning several decades, made significant contributions to Punjabi and Urdu cinema. He began his journey in the world of cinema as an assistant director to Kaifis and co-directed films with him such as Chan Makhna (1968) and Sajan Piyara (1968). He later joined Tariq Masood Qureshi’s film unit, further strengthening his presence in the industry.

During his prolific career, Askari directed around 60 Punjabi and Urdu films, extra producing 10 of them. He made his directorial debut with Khoon Paseenawith Sudhir in the lead role, along with Firdous, Mazhar Shah and Agha Talish.

Notably, Askari is credited with introducing the legendary Sultan Rahi as Maula Jatt, using his iconic Gandasa, in the groundbreaking film Wehshi Jutt in 1975, years before the famous Maula Jutt film. Among Askari’s other notable film credits were Toofan, Salakhain, Doorian, Sher Dil, Putar Jagay Da, Dil Kisi Ka Dost Nahi, Qanoon, Kinara, Mela, Talash, Mafroor, Sherdil, Tera Pyar Mein, including.

Punjab Information and Culture Minister Amir Mir expressed his deep sorrow over the death of Hasan Askari. In his condolence message, Minister Mir highlighted Askari’s invaluable contribution to the film industry, noting that he was a recipient of the prestigious Pride of Performance Award and directed many outstanding films. The minister acknowledged that Hassan Askari’s legacy would be impossible to duplicate.

Information and Culture Secretary Danyal Gillani also expressed his condolences, saying, “I was saddened to learn of the death of legendary film producer, writer and director Muhammad Hassan Askari. His contribution to Urdu and Punjabi cinema, including works like Salakhain and Wehshi Jutt, will be remembered.”

Askari’s death marks the end of an era in Pakistani cinema, leaving behind a lasting impact and a rich cinematic legacy that will continue to influence and inspire generations of filmmakers. The Pride of Performance winner is survived by his widow, a daughter and a son.

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