Celebrated folk singer Shaukat Ali passed away in Lahore on Friday where he was being treated at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).
The ailing singer was being treated at CMH for debilitating issues with his liver, with his son Ameer Shaukat Ali reporting earlier that his father’s condition had been critical for a while and doctors had given up hope.
Shaukat had other medical issues hampering his health as well including diabetes, and a heart bypass surgery a few years ago.
In a video message released earlier this week, Ameer had asked for special prayers from his father’s fans.
Shaukat, known for songs like Saif-ul-Malook–Awwal Hamd Sana-e-Elahi, Sathio Mujahido, Jaag Uthha Hai Sara Watan, and Mein Puttar Pakistan Da, was also the recipient of a Pride of Performance Award.
Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the renowned folk singer.
He prayed for elevation of the departed soul to high ranks and for fortitude to the grieved family. He said that the services of late Shaukat in the field of singing will always be remembered in the country.
Senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Senator Shibli Faraz, also expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of veteran folk singer.
In a condolence message, he said that every Pakistani was deeply saddened on the demise of Shaukat, an artist who awakened the spirit of patriotism among the people with his voice.
He said that Shaukat, who sang songs with the spirit of patriotism, played a historic role in the wars of defence of Pakistan with exciting national anthems.Â
Faraz said that today, the nation had lost a melodious sound of folk music. Shaukat’s singing reflected regional music and represented sentiments of the middle class, Shibli remarked.
He prayed to the Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear this loss with fortitude.
