Islamabad (Web Desk): Nation mourned the death of comedy legend Umer Sharif with people from all walks of life expressing their deep grief and sorrow.
Sharif had been admitted to a hospital in Germany’s Nuremberg on Wednesday after his health condition deteriorated during his flight to the United States (US). He was diagnosed with multiple ailments including coronary conditions.
The renowned comedian was expected to resume his travel to the US for medical treatment but the stay was delayed after his health condition deteriorated.
Those who sent condolence messages over the demise of the veteran artist, included, major politicians show bizz celebrities, cricketers and social activists.
In his message, President Dr Arif Alvi said that late Umar Sharif had earned distinction in the field of comedy and carved out a place for himself.
Prime Minister Imran Khan, responding to the death of the legend, expressed deep sadness, noting that Sharif held a unique position in the field of comedic arts. "His services to art will long be remembered," he said.
Opposition Leader in the National Assembly and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shehbaz Sharif also condoled over the demise and said that Umer Sharif was the identity of Pakistan globally and a legendary actor.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also expressed his grief at the demise of Sharif, recounting his contributions to the nation. He also went on to thank the deceased for re-defining comedy in Pakistan.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Asad Umar, who also heads the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), expressing grief at Sharif's death, said a person who had a god-gifted ability to put smiles on the faces of people had passed away.
Federal Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry also said that the person who always put smiles on the faces of people of all ages has passed away.
Soon after the news of his death broke, fellow artists and celebs also took to social media and offered condolences to the family.
Taking to Twitter, Sindh Education Minister Saeed Ghani said that the provincial government was making arrangements for Sharif’s burial at Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi cemetery as per his wishes.
Actor, comedian, director, producer, and TV personality, Umer Sharif was born on April 19, 1955, to an Urdu speaking family in Liaquatabad, Karachi.
The star was well-acclaimed as one of the biggest comedians in the sub-continent. He started his career in Karachi as a stage performer at the age of 14.
Some of his popular comedy stage plays include Bakra Qistoon Pe and Buddha Ghar Pe Ha.
The legendary actor received National awards for Best Director and Best Actor in 1992 for Mr. 420. He also received ten Nigar Awards.
Sharif is the only actor to receive four Nigar Awards in a single year. He is also a recipient of Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.