Amjad Hadi Yousafzai
PESHAWAR : The 18th death anniversary of legendary Pashto film actor Badr Munir will be observed with respect and reverence on October 12. However, his fans and Muhammad Javed Yousafzai, chairman of the All Pakistan Badr Munir Federation, have expressed disappointment over the non-availability of Nishtar Hall for the commemorative event. The ceremony will be held at the Cultural Centre of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Khana-e-Farhang) in Peshawar, with film artists, technicians, journalists and representatives of cultural organizations expected to attend.
Muhammad Javed Yousafzai said Badr Munir rendered unforgettable services to Pashto cinema and culture, earning a lasting place in the hearts of audiences through his natural acting. He described Munir as one of the pioneering heroes of Pashto cinema, adding that it would be difficult for the industry to find another actor of his stature and popularity.
Badr Munir was born in 1945 in Shagram, a village near the tourist town of Madyan in Swat district. He began his working life through manual labour before moving to Karachi, where he entered the film industry. He rose to prominence with the release of the Pashto film Yousaf Khan Sher Bano in 1970, which established him as one of the most popular heroes of Pashto cinema.
During his 41-year film career, Badr Munir acted in more than 750 Pashto, Urdu and Punjabi films. His notable films include Yousaf Khan Sher Bano, Didan, Adam Khan Durkhanai, Kochwan, Ilaqa Ghair and Topak Zama Qanoon. Besides acting, he also worked as a film director and producer, making significant contributions to the development of Pashto cinema.
Badr Munir passed away on October 11, 2008, at the age of 68. On the occasion of his 18th death anniversary, fans and members of the film fraternity will pay tribute to his legacy and remember his outstanding contributions to Pashto cinema and culture.
