ISLAMABAD: Eminent Urdu humorous poet Sarfraz Shahid passed away after protracted illness here on Sunday. He was 83.

His funeral prayer was offered at the H-8 graveyard.

Sarfraz Shahid was born in Ghakhar Mandi in Gujranwala and served at the Pakistan Meteorological Department for 30 years before his retirement as director.

He was the recipient of numerous awards. The Pride of Performance Award was conferred on him by former president Mamnoon Hussain in recognition of his contribution to literature on the eve of 70th Independence Day.

The deceased authored over 32 books, including seven collections of original humorous poetry - Bila Takaluf, Kuch To Kahiay, Hera Phery, Chokay, Dish Antenna, Gufta Shagufta and Chokay Chakkay.

He was also the recipient of Amir Khusro Award by Amir Khusro Society London, Special Award for Scientific Poetry by the Biotechnology Commission of Pakistan and Life Achievement Award by Punjab Arts Council, Murree.

Sarfraz Shahid had represented Pakistan in the USA, UK, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Singapore and Nepal.

He left behind a widow and three sons. One of his sons, Sohail Sarfraz, is the chief reporter of Business Recorder.

Meanwhile, National Language Promotion Department Director General Dr Rauf Parekh, Secretary Nazeer Ahmed Bhatti and Deputy Secretary Dr Rashid Hameed extended their condolences to the family of the deceased.

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2021