Renowned actor, broadcaster, producer and head of National Academy of performing art Zia Mohyeddin passed away in Karachi on Monday after protracted illness.

He was 91.

Born in Faisalabad, on June 20, 1931, he graduated from Government College, Lahore.  

Known for his excellent comparing, broadcasting, poetry and prose recitation, acting and theatre direction, he mentored hundreds of students.

He was recipient of Hilal-i-Imtiaz award for excellent services Art in 2012.

The funeral prayers will be offered in Karachi today after Zuhr prayer.

President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed deep grief over the death of Zia Mohyeddin, terming it a loss of a talented and towering personality.

In their separate condolence messages, the president and the Prime Minister paid glowing tribute to Zia Mohyeddin for his contribution to the fields of art, literature, performing arts, acting, direction and production.

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb has also expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of Zia Mohyeddin.   

Commiserating with the bereaved family, she prayed for the departed soul.    

She said Zia Mohyeddin was a literary figure whose style of reading and speaking gained fame worldwide. 

The Information Minister said that the services of Zia Mohyeddin for the showbiz industry will always be remembered.