Karachi: The funeral prayers of senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader and founding member, Taj Haider, were offered on Tuesday at Masjid Yasrab in Defence Phase 4, Karachi.
A large number of political figures, government officials, and admirers gathered to pay their final respects to the veteran leader.
Condolences
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, PPP leader Nasir Hussain Shah, PML-N’s Shah Muhammad Shah, Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi, and Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori were among the key attendees at the funeral.
In response to his passing, the Pakistan Peoples Party has announced three days of mourning across the country. On the directions of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, all party activities will remain suspended during this period as a mark of respect and remembrance.
Taj Haider passed away at the age of 83 after a brief illness. His death marks the end of a remarkable era in Pakistani politics.
A Lifelong Journey of Ideals and Service
Born on March 8, 1942, in Kota, Rajasthan, Taj Haider belonged to an educated and culturally enriched family. He received his early education from Government Boys High School in Ranchor Lines, Karachi. With a passion for literature and the arts, he also made significant contributions to television and journalism, penning insightful columns and writing for various media outlets.
As a dramatist, he was known for his memorable performance as Professor Aadiwala in the drama serial Aabla Pa. He was equally respected in political circles for his intellect and unwavering commitment to socialist ideals.
Taj Haider’s political journey began in 1967 when he participated in the Socialist Convention. That same year, he formally joined the Pakistan Peoples Party, becoming one of its founding members and a key architect of its ideological framework.
His contributions extended beyond politics. In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2012 for scientific services, and the 13th PTV Award in 2006 for Best Drama Serial Writing.
Remembering him, PPP leader Waqar Mehdi said,
“Taj Haider was not just a loyal party member, but a principled and visionary leader. He remained committed to the party’s core ideology and his political legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
End of an Era
Taj Haider’s demise leaves a deep void in the political, literary, and cultural landscape of Pakistan. As the PPP and his admirers mourn this irreparable loss, his life remains a beacon of thought, struggle, and service to the nation.
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