LAHORE: Comedian Mahmood Khan, who entertained people for more than three decades, breathed his last in the early hours of Wednesday. He was 54.

Mahmood had been suffering from diabetes, renal problem and high blood pressure for the last few years.

Survived by two sons, one daughter and a widow, he was laid to rest in Sabzazar graveyard. His funeral prayers were attended by a number of people including stage and film artistes.

The career of Mahmood, who was a relative of Habib Jalib, spanned more than three decades. He performed in 12 films, 35 TV serials and countless stage dramas.

During the last days of his life, his financial health deteriorated quicker than his physical condition. The Punjab government offered him succour when he set up a protest camp in Lahore to highlight his woes. But the 'limited' support and stipend did not help him much.

His friends regret the free medical care the government had pledged did not materialise, especially during the last three weeks of hospitalisation.

Born in Multan in 1960, he was earlier a motor mechanic. Later in the 70s when he shifted to Lahore, he bought two jeeps which were used in PTV plays 'Andhera Ujala' and 'Waris'. He started his stage career from Faisalabad and later did theatre both in Pakistan and abroad.

Published in Dawn, July 254th, 2014