Pakistani celebrities appear to lead luxurious lifestyles when viewed from the outside. The world of showbiz is glamorous, filled with light and beauty; however, there is often darkness lurking behind the flashing lights. Celebrity life encompasses more than just makeup, outfits, and awards; it has a darker side that many stars occasionally acknowledge. Work opportunities can be sporadic, and there is ongoing pressure regarding one’s appearance and public image. Additionally, issues such as workplace harassment and industry lobbies complicate matters, making it challenging to navigate this demanding environment.
Many Pakistani celebrities have met tragic ends despite having great careers and fortunes while they were alive. Murder, suicides, and painful illnesses marred their endings. In most cases, fans and the general public are unaware of what these stars have been going through. Here are a few names of stars who we lost to tragic endings, and each of them shook the public:
Ayesha Khan
Ayesha Khan was a prominent Pakistani celebrity who dedicated her life to the arts and entertainment industry in Pakistan. She began her career in PTV dramas and later transitioned to private television, earning recognition as a well-known figure. The nation was left in shock when the news of her death was announced. She had been living alone in her apartment and had passed away more than a week before her body was discovered. The unexpected loss of such a beloved star, especially at an older age, brought both shock and sorrow to the country.
Humaira Asghar
Humaira Asghar, a promising young actress, passed away unexpectedly, leaving everyone in shock. Unfortunately, the circumstances surrounding her death are both tragic and heartbreaking. Humaira was living alone in an apartment and had not paid her rent since last year. The landlord filed a lawsuit against her, and when the bailiff arrived at her door, they discovered her body, which had been deceased for a month, unbeknownst to anyone. Her remains suggested that she had passed away more than 6 months ago. This situation has raised concerns about the pressures young artists face in their lives. Humaira Asghar was only 32 years old.
Sana Yousaf
Sana Yousaf is also among the Pakistani celebrities who had a very tragic ending. She was a content creator, and she was just 17 years old. She was murdered in her own house by a psychopath whom she rejected. Her case highlighted the hypocrisy of this nation when people tried to judge her initially after the crime was committed. It also showed deep-rooted misogyny where a man can never take no for an answer, and killed a youthful girl who had her whole life ahead of her.
Aamir Liaquat Hussain
Aamir Liaquat Hussain was one of the most well-known celebrities in Pakistan, achieving success in both television and politics. However, the final years of his life were marked by controversies, including multiple divorces and marriages that frequently made headlines. Ultimately, he suffered from severe depression after his private videos were allegedly leaked by his wife. His death came as a shock not only to the public but also to his family.
Qandeel Baloch
Qandeel Baloch rose to fame in a short time. Her bold presence on screen and her non-hypocritical attitude are what endeared her to the people. Even those who hated her liked her guts. She used to call out everyone and do what she felt was right. She exposed so many people in a short period. She succumbed to honour killing as her brother murdered her inside their home. Her case went on for years, but she never truly found justice.
Sultan Rahi
Sultan Rahi was a legendary Pakistani actor who appeared in over 800 films during his career. At one point, he played a crucial role in sustaining Punjabi cinema, cementing his status as the biggest film star Pakistan has ever known. Despite his illustrious career and a positive public image, he was tragically murdered by unknown assailants. While driving back to Lahore from Rawalpindi, he was surrounded by men who shot him, and he died on the spot. The fact that he never received justice for this crime makes the tragedy even more sorrowful.
Nanha
Nanha is a well-known name among Pakistani celebrities, and his tragic ending revealed the darker side of the entertainment industry. He was a renowned actor who starred in many important films throughout his career. Despite his success, he tragically took his own life by shooting himself with a shotgun in Lahore. Various reasons have been suggested for his death. Some believe he was in love with a co-star and could not cope with unrequited feelings, while others claim that he was losing career opportunities, which contributed to his decision to take such a drastic step.
Tariq Teddy
Tariq Teddy was a well-known comedian in Pakistan, recognized for his extensive work in theatre. He gained popularity for his unique dry sense of humor. Unfortunately, like many other Pakistani celebrities, he faced significant hardships in his later years. Tariq suffered from serious liver issues, which left him very ill. As his condition worsened, his family struggled financially and had to seek assistance. The government stepped in to help, but by that time, he was already in critical condition. Tragically, he passed away at the young age of 46.
Mastana
Mastana is another artist from the theatre, and his story shows the ugly side of how our artists are treated. He gave 30 years to theatre, and in the end, he was allegedly slapped by a policeman who had come to raid a theatre. This disrespect disheartened him, and he left the theatre. He was suffering from Hepatitis C for years and finally passed away in Bahawalpur. An illustrious star of the country disrespected in this manner should have led to consequences for the perpetrator but it never happened.
Babbu Baral
Babbu Baral is another theatre artist and singer. His talent was unmatched and his comedy puns are still being copied. He was a natural talent and gave years to art and theatre. He got very sick in the end, and his family had to ask for help. He did not survive his illness and passed away. His family is still in dire straits and they have requested the government to help them.
Roohi Bano
Roohi Bano was an incredible talent, celebrated as one of the nation’s finest. Sadly, her life was filled with hardship. She endured two failed marriages and faced the tragic loss of her son, who was murdered at a young age. These deeply painful experiences took a toll on her mental health in her later years. Ultimately, she passed away in Istanbul, where she was cared for by her sister. Despite her struggles, her legacy as a talented artist continues to inspire many.
Asad Abbas
Asad Abbas was a promising singer and a talent to watch for in the music world. His voice was truly magical, and he even had the opportunity to perform in Coke Studio. Despite a flourishing career, he faced a devastating setback when he experienced kidney failure. In his struggle to recover, he sold all his properties and assets, but ultimately, he could not overcome his illness and passed away at a very young age.
Junaid Jamshed
Junaid Jamshed was a beloved Pakistani celebrity who captured the hearts of millions. He began his career as a heartthrob with the band Vital Signs and went on to create some of the most iconic music in Pakistan. Later in life, he chose to leave the music industry to devote himself to Islam, embracing a lifestyle based on Islamic principles. Once again, he won the admiration of many. Sadly, he passed away in a plane crash in Northern Pakistan in 2016, a loss that was both sudden and tragic given his young age. The impact of his passing is still felt across Pakistan.
Amjad Sabri
Qawwal Amjad Sabri was a prominent figure from the prestigious Sabri gharana. He contributed some of the finest kalams in Pakistan and was celebrated for his beautiful demeanor and soulful voice. Tragically, he was murdered during Ramadan, which was a tremendous shock to many. Sabri became a victim of targeted killing in Karachi, and the loss of such a significant figure in the country to violence was deeply mourned.
Nadra
Nadra was a rising star in the Pakistani film industry, renowned for her beautiful hair, captivating eyes, and undeniable star power. She was thriving in her career, working alongside superstars like Sultan Rahi. Tragically, her life was cut short when she was shot dead. The investigation into her murder yielded no results, and a talented actress lost her life in the prime of her career.
These tragic deaths serve as poignant reminders of the mortality inherent in life. While individuals may be captivated by the glamour and spectacle associated with stardom, it is essential to recognize that public figures are also individuals who may be grappling with significant pain and challenges.
