News Desk |
Renowned actor Matloobur Rehman aged 68, popularly known for playing fictional character ‘Zakoota’ from ‘Ainak Wala Jin’ passed away in Mayo Hospital, Lahore after a prolonged illness on February 16th, 2018.
According to media reports, the actor suffered from multiple health problems including partial paralysis, hearing problem, and diabetes. Lack of work and deteriorating health brought Rehman in dire need of financial assistance to support himself and his family in the latter part of his life.
Around seven years ago, he was paralyzed but continued to work in theatres at Al Hamra Hall in Lahore since he was the only breadwinner for his family.
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In an interview with a local media outlet, the actor lamented how Pakistan is failing to honor their artists. He said it was “a tragedy that artists in our country are not given due respect”.
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“I spent 40 years of my life spreading happiness among the people of my country. But now, in old age, I am living without electricity and gas,” Rehman had said.
He rose to fame after appearing in a famous children’s television play ‘Ainak Wala Jin’ as Zakoota Jin that was aired on PTV in 1993. His popular dialogue “Mujhe kaam batao, mein kya karoun, mein kis ko khaun?” is still remembered by people who watched the series.
His death came as a shock to his fellow actors from the entertainment and theatre industry. Haseeb Pasha, who played the role of Hamun Jadugar in a popular series said: “I spent a lot of time with Zakoota and today is definitely a bad day for me, as he is no more.”
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“I’d known him since Aainak Wala Jin started and I have many memories associated with him. I cannot forget him as his contribution towards his work is what made the plays a success,” added the actor.
Earlier his fellow actress ‘Nusrat Ara’ or ‘Bin Batori’ from ‘Ainak Wala Jin’ too faced financial adversities before dying at the age of 65 in Lahore, last year.
He has left behind a widow, three sons, and two daughters. His funeral is set to be held on Saturday,