KARACHI, Feb 3: The 87th birthday of Ahmed Saeed Nagi, who distinguished himself as one of the frontline Muslim artists in the Freedom Movement, was celebrated here by a large number of his relations, friends and admirers.

Mr Nagi, who has the distinction of being the first Pakistani artist to paint the portrait of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah when he was alive, recalled his artistic work at a colourful function at his residence on Sunday night.

In recognition of his status and achievements as a painter, the President of Pakistan awarded him the Pride of Performance award.

His work can be described as the exposition of his inner love for beauty, blended with his feelings of national pride. He has avoided buying foreign expressions due to his deep love for maintaining local traditions. — PPI