Islamabad – On Tuesday, the birth anniversary of the pioneering puppeteer and revered Pakistani television artist, scriptwriter, newspaper columnist, voice actor, and TV show director, Farooq Qaiser, was commemorated.
Born in Lahore on October 31, 1945, Farooq Qaiser received his education at the National College of Arts. He later pursued further studies, earning a Master’s degree in Graphic Arts from Romania in 1976 and a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication from the University of Southern California, USA, in 1999.
Farooq Qaiser was a multifaceted talent, excelling in various creative roles, including puppeteer, columnist, director, scriptwriter, and voice-over artist. He authored numerous humorous books, with titles like “Meray Piyaray Allah Mian,” “Hor Puchho,” “Kaalam Galoch,” and “Meethay Karelay” among his notable works.
One of his most enduring contributions to Pakistani culture was the creation of “Uncle Sargam,” a beloved puppet character for which he provided the voice. Uncle Sargam quickly gained immense popularity in Pakistan, becoming a cherished household name that endured for decades.
Uncle Sargam made his debut in the children’s television show “Kaliyan,” which was broadcast on Pakistan Television (PTV) in 1976. Farooq Qaiser’s creative contributions extended to other beloved TV programs, including “Putli Tamasha” and “Sargam Time.”
In recognition of his remarkable talent and significant contributions to Pakistan’s entertainment industry spanning four decades, Farooq Qaiser was honored with the Presidential Pride of Performance award in 1993 and the Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2021. In 2010, Pakistan Television (PTV) also bestowed upon him the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Farooq Qaiser sadly passed away on May 14, 2021, and he was laid to rest in Islamabad. His enduring legacy continues to be celebrated by those who appreciate his remarkable artistic and creative contributions.