LAHORE: The first death anniversary of celebrated Fifty Fifty actor Majid Jahangir is being observed today (Wednesday).
Renowned as a stalwart of Pakistani comedy, Jahangir not only left an indelible mark on the local scene but also influenced trends in acting that gained popularity in India.
A versatile performer, Jahangir possessed the unique ability to improvise comedic routines on stage without relying on a script. His comedic style, distinct from the Punjabi ‘juggat,’ showcased his exceptional talent. Jahangir’s expertise extended to character development, but unfortunately, he faced challenges in reinventing himself after reaching the pinnacle of his career, making him a star who peaked too early.
He introduced innovative variations in comic acting, leading a memorable era when he dominated the industry, with other actors emulating his style. However, like many others, Jahangir experienced personal tragedies before his untimely passing.
In 1979, Jahangir gained widespread recognition with the popular PTV comedy show Fifty Fifty, alongside Tara, Zeba Shehnaz, Bushra Ansari, and Ashraf Khan. The show became a household name, solidifying the fame of its cast. Jahangir remained a consistent presence until the show concluded in 1985.
Following a 23-year stint in the United States, Jahangir returned to Pakistan and resumed his career, participating in Aamir Liaquat Hussain’s shows for local TV and the comedy show Khabarnaak. In the 80s, he received the Pride of Performance award for his contributions to Fifty Fifty. In 2020, he was honored with the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz and a Lifetime Achievement award.
