Renowned actor Jamil Fakhri remembered on death anniversary 

Lahore (Wen Desk): Fans and colleagues remembered veteran stage, television and film actor Jamil Fakhri on his15th death anniversary, highlighting his lasting impact on Pakistan’s entertainment industry.

Born in Lahore in 1946, Jamil Fakhri initially pursued a professional career in banking after completing his studies and joined the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP). Alongside his job, he gradually developed a strong interest in acting and began performing in theatre at the WAPDA Auditorium in Lahore and later at the Alhamra Arts Council.

During his theatre years, Jamil Fakhri shared the stage with some of the most prominent names of the time, including Kamal Ahmed Rizvi, Athar Shah Khan, Ali Ejaz, and Nanha. His performances in well-known stage productions such as Andar Ana Mana Hai, Zuban Daraz, and Lahore Bypass earned him widespread recognition.

He is also regarded as one of the early contributors to PTV’s artistic foundation. His breakthrough in television came when producer Yawar Hayat cast him in TV dramas, opening the door to a successful screen career.

Jamil Fakhri went on to feature in several memorable television plays, including Tanay Banay, Daldal, Waris, Andhera Ujala, Bandhan, and Ek Mohabbat Sau Afsanay. His role as police inspector Jaffar Hussain in Andhera Ujala became particularly popular and established him as a household name, eventually leading him to opportunities in films.

He also built a strong film career, acting in over 50 movies, with Muskarahat and Deewanay Do among his notable projects. His final appearance on television was in the PTV drama Dil Day Boohay.

Ironically, one of his dramas, Sehra Teri Pyas, was broadcast on a private channel on the very day he suffered a stroke.

On May 31, 2011, he was admitted to Mayo Hospital after suffering a stroke that left him paralysed.

Jamil Fakhri passed away on June 9, 2011, leaving behind a rich legacy in theatre, television, and film.