(M Waqar) It has been 41 years since Waheed Murad, the bright star of the Pakistan film industry and the chocolate hero, was released from the fans. What did you rule?
Born on October 2, 1938 in the house of famous filmmaker Nisar Murad, Wahid Murad completed his MA in English Literature from Karachi University and started his film career in 1962 with a film “Heera Aur Pathar” but the film “Arman” which ran continuously for 75 weeks on the silver screen brought him to the top and made him the first regular superstar of Pakistan film industry. .
Due to his unique style, popularity like Waheed Murad could not be shared by any other hero, people used to stand for hours outside the film studio to catch a glimpse of him. There was such a rush outside that the traffic was jammed there for three hours and the police had to be called. Later, the principal of the school told the children of Waheed Murad not to ask their father to come to school from now on.
Vahid Murad has acted in around 124 films including Duraha, Andalib, Jab Jab Phool Kihle, Birthday, Anjaman, Jahan Tum Teh Hum, Phool Mere Gulshan Ka, Deor Bhabhi, Kinees, Insanit, Dil Meera Dhadkan Teri, Naag. Money, spring, rain flowers, stay safe, Laila Majnu, Seedaar, candle, charmer, road stone, Soraya. Bhupali, Shabana, Prastash, Apane Pray, Saheli, Parakh, Shishe Ka Ghar, Ude Ki Chain, Raja Ki Aye Gee Barat, Bandhan, Badnam, Ghirao, Ahat, Mang Meri Bhar Do, Shishe Ka Ka Ghar and others are prominent.
Apart from Urdu, he also starred in 10 Punjabi films, Mastana Mahi, Ishq Meera Naan, Seoni Meera Mahi, Jogi, Sajjan Kamla, Aurat Raj, Akh Lali Badobdi, Anokhadaj, Parwah Ni Nain and Vohtji, a Pashto film ”Pakhtoon Pe Wilayat”. Kanbar” is also to his credit.
Wahid Morad also made 13 films as a filmmaker, all of which were super hits, in which “Insan Badalta Hai” was the first film as a filmmaker, as Hirwan’s first film, “Olaad” was released in 1962, but with “Hira Aur Pathar” he became a chocolate hero. Gained Fame which was released in 1964, Zeba was the heroine opposite Waheed Murad.
Wahid Morad worked with every major heroine of his time including Shamim Ara, Rani, Shabnam, Asia, Mumtaz, Kavita, Sangeeta, Zeba, Deba, Aaliya, Babra Sharif, Nashu and Neelu. Worked with SM Yusuf, Qadeer Ghori, Parvez Malik, Shabab Kiranwi, Iqbal Yusuf, Hasan Tariq, MA Rashid, Nazrul Islam, Aslam. Dar, Zafar Shabab, Shamim Ara, Javed Sajjad, Iqbal Akhtar and others are included. Worked with every popular artist of the film industry
He not only reached the set of every film on time but also advised others to be punctual, he was awarded numerous awards in recognition of his artistic services, including Nigar Award, Roman Award, Noor Jahan Award, Chitrali Award (Dhaka), Graduate The awards ‘Sindh Awami Award’, Masoor Award and Riaz Shahid Award are prominent.
Vahid Murad’s film rise and fall has been compared to Hollywood actor Elvis Presley, who suddenly fell after a long period of fame. He was married to Salma Murad, with whom he has two children, Adil Murad and Alia Murad.
This eminent artist met Khaliq Haqiqi on November 23, 1983 in Karachi at the age of 45. He is Asudah Khak Hain in Lahore, Muqdar, Zalzala and Hirwan were his last films which were released after his death.
How has Waheed Murad influenced modern actors in South Asian cinema?
Time.news Exclusive Interview: Celebrating Waheed Murad’s Legacy
Editor (E): Welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re honored to have Dr. Ayesha Khan, a prominent film historian and expert on South Asian cinema, to discuss the enduring legacy of Waheed Murad, the beloved “chocolate hero” of the Pakistan film industry. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Khan.
Dr. Ayesha Khan (AK): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an iconic figure in the Pakistani film landscape.
E: It’s hard to believe it has been 41 years since Waheed Murad left us. Can you share your thoughts on his impact on the film industry during his time?
AK: Absolutely! Waheed Murad wasn’t just a star; he was a phenomenon. He redefined the image of the romantic hero in Pakistan’s film industry. His charisma, exceptional acting skills, and distinctive style created a connection with the audience that few could replicate. He became a symbol of youth, hope, and romance.
E: His career took off with the film “Arman.” Could you elaborate on what made this film and Waheed’s performance so special?
AK: “Arman” was a groundbreaking film for its time. It showcased Murad in a multi-dimensional role that resonated deeply with the audience. The 75-week run of “Arman” is a testament to his popularity during that era. Waheed’s unique blend of charm and emotional depth allowed viewers to see themselves in his characters, forging a lasting bond between him and the audience.
E: There are anecdotes about fans waiting for hours just to catch a glimpse of him. What does this tell us about his celebrity status?
AK: It speaks volumes about his star power! Such fanfare is rare and speaks to the impact he had on popular culture. The fact that traffic jams occurred at film studios due to his fans is indicative of his magnetic presence. He was more than an actor; he became a movement, inspiring countless fans and aspiring artists across Pakistan.
E: Waheed also ventured into filmmaking. How significant were his contributions in that arena?
AK: His directorial efforts were significant, with all 13 films he directed becoming super hits. His first film as a director, “Insan Badalta Hai,” showcased his vision and understanding of cinema. Directing allowed him to express himself creatively beyond acting, further cementing his legacy in the industry.
E: He also acted in films in multiple languages, including Punjabi and Pashto. How did this multilingualism enhance his appeal?
AK: Waheed’s ability to perform in different languages broadened his audience. It showed his versatility and commitment to reaching as many viewers as possible. His work in Punjabi and Pashto films highlighted the cultural richness of Pakistan and helped unify diverse audiences under the common banner of cinema.
E: As we reflect on his legacy, how do you think Waheed Murad’s influence continues to shape contemporary actors in Pakistan?
AK: Waheed Murad set a standard for charisma and versatility that continues to inspire modern actors. His approach to character development and emotional expression can be seen in the work of many contemporary stars. Many actors today cite him as a major influence, and his films remain a reference point for performance and storytelling in Pakistani cinema.
E: Thank you, Dr. Khan, for sharing your insights on Waheed Murad. His contributions to the film industry are indeed timeless.
AK: Thank you for having me. Waheed Murad’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that the “chocolate hero” remains a cherished figure in the hearts of fans everywhere.