I WAS deeply shocked to learn that an Indian veteran actor, Om Puri is no more. He died of a heart attack, according to an Indian news channel. But the cause of his death still remains doubtful.

A few days before his death he was criticised and questioned by the Indian media, including senior politicians, for speaking boldly about peace and harmony. It is a known fact that whenever the situation between India and Pakistan deteriorated following a war or a border dispute, the travel by divided families and trade between the two countries were affected badly .

For the first time he had spoken boldly over a very sensitive and humanitarian issue. As an actor he was regarded and respected by Pakistani artistes as well.

Om Puri was a man of principle who hated war and loved peace.

Syed Zafar Ahmed

Karachi

Published in Dawn January 11th, 2017