Legendary Pakistani actress Sabiha Khanum passes away at 85

Legendary Pakistani actress, popularly known as the First Lady of Pakistan’s silver screen, Sabiha Khanum passed away in the United States at the age of 85, leaving behind a rich legacy.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the demise of our beautiful and beloved Sabiha Raza (Sabiha Khanum) who passed away earlier today, June 13th, 2020,” her granddaughter, Sarish Khan, said in social media update.

According to reports, Sabiha who ruled the silver screen in the 1950s and 1960s with superhit movies including Kaneez, Mukhra, Anokha and Tehzeeb, was suffering from renal disease.

Though Sabiha starred in a number of movies, she was mostly cast opposite her husband, the late Santosh Kumar (Syed Musa Raza). Sabiha and Santosh were branded as the “perfect couple”.

Sabiha also received the Pride of Performance award from the president of Pakistan in 1986.

Having been in the public eye for four decades, she finally retired, and migrated to the United States where she lived with her eldest daughter. Her son and the youngest daughter are also settled here.

Several Pakistani actors including Mahira Khan, Iqra Aziz, Yasir Hussain and Ali Rehman Khan mourned her death and remembered her rich legacy.

Aaap thein, toh hum aaj hein.. ♥️ thank you for paving the way, will always be remembered🙏🏼♥️ #SabihaKhanum pic.twitter.com/6o7cvhTXBW

— Mahira Khan (@TheMahiraKhan) June 14, 2020

Our industry has lost one of its greatest. A true legend of the silver screen. The beautiful Sabiha Khanum Sahiba passed away today. May her soul Rest In eternal Peace. #RIPSabihaKhanum pic.twitter.com/zig772onS4

— Ali Rehman Khan (@alirehmankhan) June 13, 2020

Very sad to hear of Sabiha Khanum passing. Was privileged to meet her at a reception in Washington some years ago. She was the epitome of grace even then,and loved hearing that many of us had seen her movies. She and husband Santosh were Pk’s full on matinee idols in the 60s pic.twitter.com/fntU3Cx0Rl

— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) June 14, 2020