ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) on Tuesday hosted an event to pay tribute to late actress and director Shamim Ara during which singers and dancers associated with the council put on performances on songs featuring the late actress.

Singers including Mubashera Hafeez, Nauman Mirza, Naveed Alvi, Anis Butt performed many of her songs including Meri Zindagi Hai Naghma, Chalo Acha Hua Tum Bhol Gaye, Aay Dil Kisi Ki Yaad Mein and Gham-i-dil Ko In Ankhon Sey Chalak Jana Bhi Ata Hai.

Shamim Ara was born in Aligarh in 1938 and her family moved to Karachi in the early 1950s. She was discovered by director Najam Naqvi who cast her in the film Kanwari Bewa. She went on to play supporting roles in films like Anarkali, Raaz and Miss 1956.

Shamim Ara was declared best supporting actress for her role in Saheli and went on to play central characters in many films. She won many awards including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement National Film Award and produced her first film, Saiqa in the late 1960s.

The newly appointed PNCA DG and renowned artist Jamal Shah said Shamim Ara will be remembered by her fans.

“Shamim Ara is one of the greatest actors of our film industry and some of her films including Naila, lakhon mein ek and farangi are unforgettable. She had a charisma on stage and through her acting, she entertained and educated us,” he said.

“The Pakistani film industry is facing a decline, but the tradition of storytelling is still there and will continue in one form or another. The government is supporting the younger generation in producing movies,” he added.

Talking to Dawn, one of the singers, Mubashera Hafeez said: “Performing in such events is always a great as it gives us a chance to pay tribute o the legends who contributed so much to the film industry”.

Another singer, Nauman Mirza said: “Events like these also gives new artists the opportunity to showcase their talent”.

Published in Dawn, September 28th, 2016