Famous playwright Fatima Surayya Bajia passes away at 85

KARACHI: Renowned Pakistani novelist and playwright Fatima Surayya Bajia passed away in Karachi after suffering through prolonged illness at the age of 85 on Tuesday.

Born on September 1 1930 in Indian Hyderabad, she migrated to Pakistan soon after the independence along with her family including famous artists and intellectuals Anwar Maqsood  and Zehra Nigah (brother and sister).

Bajia was awarded various awards including the Pride of Performance and Hilal-e-Imtiaz for her services to the performing arts in the country. She was also honoured with Japan’s highest civil award in recognition of her works. She also served as an advisor to the Chief Minister of Sindh.

She was a popular personality in Pakistan’s art and social circles for writing plays for TV, radio and the stage. Shama, Afshan, Aroosa, Ana and Tasveer are among some of her best dramas written for the Pakistan Television (PTV).

Among other celebrities and politicians and government officials, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Bajia.

In a statement issued by the PM House, the premier prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and forbearance for the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss.

The prime minister said that a huge vacuum has been created in country's literary circles Bajia's death, which he added will be difficult to fill in times ahead.