Lahore (Web Desk): The 29th death anniversary of Pakistan's legendary actor Sultan Rahi, the king of Punjabi cinema, was observed on Thursday.
Born in 1938 in Uttar Pradesh, India, to a Muslim family, Rahi's life took a pivotal turn when his family migrated to Pakistan following Partition in 1947, settling in the vibrant city of Gujranwala.
Sultan Rahi’s cinematic journey began in 1959 with a modest guest role in Baghi, but it was the release of Maula Jatt in 1979 that cemented his place as the heartthrob and hero of Punjabi cinema.
The raw power of his portrayal of the iconic Maula Jatt reshaped the landscape of Pakistani film, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural consciousness.
His unmatched stardom soared through the 1970s and 1980s, with unforgettable performances in hits like Behram Daku (1980), Sher Khan (1981), Sala Sahib, and Ghulami (1985), captivating audiences across generations.
Sultan Rahi's contribution to film transcended his roles. He became a symbol of resilience, the quintessential action hero who dominated the silver screen for over two decades, appearing in more than 800 films in both Punjabi and Urdu.
His astonishing productivity earned him a place in the Guinness Book of Records, hailed as the most prolific actor of his time.
A two-time recipient of the prestigious Nigar Award, Rahi was honoured for his outstanding performances in Babul (1971) and Basheera (1972), further cementing his status as an icon.
His mastery of the craft and dedication to his art made him the face of Punjabi cinema during its golden era.
However, the film industry was left reeling with shock and disbelief when Sultan Rahi’s life was tragically cut short on January 9, 1996. At the age of 58, he was brutally murdered during a highway robbery on the Grand Trunk Road, just hours after completing a journey from Islamabad to Lahore.
His untimely death shocked millions, and though the circumstances of the crime remain shrouded in mystery, his legacy endures—alive in the hearts of his admirers and in the timeless films that continue to inspire.
Sultan Rahi’s spirit, his larger-than-life persona, and his unparalleled contributions to cinema continue to echo in the world of Pakistani film, ensuring that he will remain the undisputed "King" of Punjabi cinema.
