KARACHI, Oct 22: Friends, colleagues and family members of the iconic comedian Lehri (Safirullah) paid tribute to his art and personality at an event organised in his memory at the Arts Council on Sunday. The actor passed away on Sept 13 after a protracted illness.

Speaking on the occasion, noted film and TV actor Munawwar Saeed said Lehri sahib was a cheerful person. He loved food, and was especially fond of spicy dishes. He said Lehri sahib’s favourite dish was nihari. When he (Munawwar Saeed) was in Lahore working for the film industry, he and the late actor would often get together to eat nihari. He also narrated a few anecdotes, one of which, when he worked alongside the comedian in a film directed by S. Suleiman, amused the audience. He said he could go on and on about the comedian for there were so many memories that he cherished.

Lehri’s son-in-law Asad thanked the organisers for arranging the programme. Talking about the late actor, he said he was an affectionate human being who cared about each and every member of the family.

Asif Mehdi, son of the legendary singer Mehdi Hasan, said his father always spoke very highly of Lehri sahib. Provincial minister Zubair Ahmed, actor Anwar Iqbal and comedian Ali Hasan, among others, also spoke. The event was hosted by Iqbal Latif and Faisal.—Staff Reporter