Lahore, January 9, 2025: The 29th death anniversary of legendary Pakistani actor Sultan Rahi is being observed today, commemorating his unparalleled contributions to the film industry.
Born on June 24, 1938, as Muhammad Sultan, Rahi began his film career in 1959 with a guest appearance in the film Baghi. Over the years, he rose to superstardom, cementing his legacy with the release of Maula Jatt in 1979, a film that became a cultural phenomenon.
During his illustrious career, Sultan Rahi appeared in over 800 Punjabi and Urdu films, earning him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most prolific actor. Among his notable works are Warryam, Sher Khan, Godfather, and the iconic Maula Jatt.
Rahi’s pairing with actresses like Anjuman and Aasia was immensely popular with audiences, and his last film appearance was alongside actress Saima.
He was also the recipient of two Nigar Awards for his performances in Babul (1971) and Bashira (1972). Directed by Aslam Dar, Bashira marked a turning point in his career, setting him on the path to superstardom.
In a recent interview, veteran actor Sohail Ahmed shared insights into Sultan Rahi’s life and career. He revealed that Rahi had a background in theatre and always aspired to take on diverse roles beyond the Gandasa genre he became synonymous with. Despite his superstardom, Rahi continued performing in live theatre, a medium he deeply cherished.
Sohail Ahmed mentioned that Rahi had expressed a desire to act in films wearing suits and explore unique characters, but producers often cast him in repetitive roles. “He longed for creative freedom to showcase his range as an actor,” Sohail Ahmed said.
Sultan Rahi’s life was tragically cut short when he was shot dead in Gujranwala in 1996. However, his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers, solidifying his status as an icon of Pakistani cinema.
