Remembering Athar Waqar Azim: The legacy of a PTV icon

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 8 September 2024 |  JP Staff Report

Athar Waqar Azim was a significant figure in the history of Pakistan Television, having played a crucial role for over three decades. His contributions to the media landscape continue to inspire many.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Athar Waqar Azim, a towering figure in Pakistan Television (PTV) history, passed away in Karachi, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. Over more than three decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of television in Pakistan.

Born into a family steeped in literary traditions, Athar Waqar was the son of celebrated writer and poet Professor Syed Waqar Azim and the younger brother of former PTV Managing Director Akhtar Waqar Azim. His early exposure to luminaries like Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Habib Jalib shaped his love for literature, but it was television that became his true calling.

Athar joined PTV in 1973 as a producer and eventually rose to the position of Director of Current Affairs. His career spanned both the black-and-white and color television eras, overseeing significant transitions in the media landscape. He retired in 2006 after 33 years of service, during which he was responsible for producing interviews with numerous heads of state and iconic figures, including Dilip Kumar. Athar also covered major sports events such as cricket, hockey, and squash, with the historic Sharjah cricket match against India being one of his most notable achievements.

Aside from his professional role, Athar Waqar was known for his versatility as a TV, film, and theater actor and a voice-over artist. His contributions earned him the respect of colleagues, who hailed him as a true asset to Pakistan Television.

Even after retirement, his influence and contributions to Pakistan'[s television industry remained indelible, and his legacy continues to inspire media professionals.