Legendary actor Shamim Ara passes away

Renowned actor, director Shamim Ara breathed her last in London on Friday. The septuagenarian had been fighting for her life for nearly six years after a brain surgery had left her in a coma.

Making her film debut in 1956, the Aligarh-born diva of yesteryears acted in almost 90 movies and also made a name as one of the country’s most commercially successful film-makers.

Shamim Ara’s impact in Lollywood fraternity was very unique; she played the role of godmother to many of the female actors, who eventually became big names in the industry.

Shamim Ara had a rather tumultuous journey as a star. Her first film Kunwari Baywa did not yield much success at the box office, but the role gained her a lot of respect. Shortly after that, she got a string of hit films under her name, such as Devdas, Doraha, Humraz and other films.

Talking to The Express Tribune, veteran actor Bahar Begum said the industry never saw another woman who could match Shamim Ara’s grit. “The reason why she made all these superhit films was because she never compromised on quality and content,” Bahar added.

Actor Ghulam Mohiuddin also expressed grief over the demise. “It is quite sad to hear of her death. She was a brave woman who put up a fight with illness for years,” he said.

Mohiuddin recalled Shamim Ara’s willingness to extend support to anyone who was in need. “She was always there … for juniors, for crew members.”