Actor Majid Jahangir, best known for his role in the 80s popular TV show, Fifty Fifty, is suffering from depression, and appeals government to deliver on promised financial aid.
Jahangir was awarded the Medal of Distinction on Independence Day in 2020. However, his appeal for financial aid is yet to be responded to.
In an interview with Express Tribune, Jahangir spoke of his financial woes and added that it has become a nuisance for him to even arrange for his medicines for stroke and other ailments.
The actor revealed that Sindh Governor Imran Ismail invited him before August 14, 2020. He informed him about being awarded the Medal of Distinction by the President of Pakistan Arif Alvi on Independence Day.
Jahangir commented the Governor was grateful for his 50 years of artistic service. Nonetheless, when the artist informed the politician of his need for medical treatment, the former was promised financial aid. But even after a year and a half, the comedian still waits for the promised help.
The Fifty Fifty actor said he requires Rs25,000 to Rs30,000 per month for medicines, with his physiotherapy and his examination expenses added. With no family members living, some friends are helping him in these difficult times.
Jahangir, who recently moved to Lahore from Karachi, is being taken care of by his friend, Masood. He is currently living in a house given by Malik Riaz in the city. In Karachi, he stays at a friend’s flat.
The actor appeals to government
The actor appealed to the President of Pakistan, Arif Alvi, and the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan, and the Chief Ministers of the four provinces to look into his issue on the basis of human compassion. Jahangir’s services were not limited to a single province but to the whole country.
The celebrated artist also complained about his fellow artists. Jahangir shared he had been undergoing treatment in a hospital in Lahore for almost a month now, hanging between life and death. However, no one turned up to see him.
Jahangir was honored with the Pride of Performance Award — the highest accolade in Pakistan — for his memorable performance in Fifty Fifty. He worked for Pakistan Television Network (PTV) for 22 years and has, to date, starred in four films.
Pakistani actors have time and again reported to have been ignored by successive governments despite providing decades-long entertainment. Previously, the veteran actor Naila Jaffery who lost her battle to ovarian cancer sought royalty payments to pay for her treatment. Her appeal only fell on deaf ears.
Story Courtesy: Express Tribune
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