PESHAWAR: Local artists, rights activists and diehard fans gathered at Archives Hall here on Saturday to mark 15th death anniversary of legendry Pashto film star Badar Munir.

A large number of cine-goers, playback singers and fans of Badar Munir attended the event and paid him glowing tributes. Noted film reporter A R Gul, veteran actor Aman Khan and several film stars also attended the event.

Delegates from Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also turned up to share their views regarding the contribution of Badar Munir to Pashto entertainment industry.

The event was organised by All Afghan Pakhtun Federation (AAPF) to praise the illustrious services of all-time hero and uncrowned king of Pashto cinema commonly called as Pollywood since early 70s till his death in October, 2008.

Speakers urge young artists to follow in footprints of their seniors

Late Badar Munir was a versatile actor, who reigned over Pashto cinema for several decades and registered a huge impact on the audience owing to his inborn talent. He earned a widespread popularity, leaving deep footprints on the film industry.

Speakers said on the occasion that Badar Munir performed in around 500 top Pashto, Punjabi and Urdu movies and remained the most sought hero till his last days. The duo of Mr Munir and Yasmeen Khan would always prove blockbuster for the cine-goers and it made Pashto film industry thrive, they added.

Haji Aslam Khan, the author of ‘Pakhto Filmoona’ book, in his remarks pointed out that Badar Munir despite being an uncrowned king of Pashto cinema, remained humble and down-to-earth person. He used to secretly extend financial assistance to poor and needy around him. “Pashto cinema could not produce another artist like Badar Munir and no performer could replace him either. Early 70s would remain a golden era in the history of Pollywood,” he added.

Juma Khan Afghan Baloch, chairman of AAPF, said that Pashto entertainment should follow in the footprints of performers like Badar Munir, Asif Khan, Yasmeen Khan and Naimat Sarhadi, who were trend setters.

Syed Munir, son of Badar Munir, stated that his legendary father contributed a lot to Pakistan film industry and remained a shining star due to his quality performances and genuine facial expressions. He added that young artists should learn from senior performers including Badar Munir.

Published in Dawn, October 15th, 2023