LAHORE, Sept 2: A renowned Punjabi poet Ahmad Rahi, 79, died after a long illness here on Monday morning in a private hospital.

A recipient of Pride of Performance, Rahi had been suffering from paralysis for almost seven months which had affected his memory and speech.

But he was admitted to Mayo Hospital on Aug 25 for renal infection and respiratory problem.

He developed complications soon after being allegedly administered wrong medication and had to be shifted to a private hospital where he temporarily recovered.

On Sunday evening, Rahi’s condition deteriorated rapidly and he died afterwards.

Rahi is survived by his wife, a son and daughter.

He was buried in Miani Sahib graveyard and his Qul will be held on Tuesday (today) after Asr prayers at his Park Lane residence, near Mozang police station.

APP ADDS: The Federal Minister for Information and Media Development, Nisar A. Memon, has condoled the death of Ahmad Rahi, a noted poet, lyricist, producer and director.

In a commiseration message to the bereaved family, the minister expressed his condolences saying that he had been deeply saddened by Rahi’s death.