What is the highest form of praise? Some will say that imitation is perhaps one such form. The other, perhaps, is when someone with whom you have barely any familiarity, chooses to single you out for praise long after you have passed, could be another such form.
Recently, veteran Bollywood comedian Johnny Lever praised the work of legendary Pakistani comedian Munawar Zareef and expressed his desire to meet with the family of the late comedian.
Years after Zareef's passing, Lever recalled his contributions to the entertainment industry, stating that he pioneered spontaneous comedy.
In an interview with Geo News, Lever expressed his wish to visit Karachi and Lahore.
When asked about his favourite Pakistani comedians, he mentioned having close ties with Moin Akhter, Umer Sharif, Amanullah Khan, Shakeel Siddiqui, and Rauf Lala.
Lever went on to extend his gratitude to his Pakistani fans.
Currently, Lever is on tour in London and Spain to shoot Welcome-5.
Who was Munawar Zareef
Pakistani comedian Munawar Zareef, also known as Shahenshah-e-Zarafat(Emperor of humour) was born in Gujranwala before the Partition.
Growing up in and around Lahore in the newly created state of Pakistan, Zareef found his calling in comedy, providing the public with lighter moments to take their minds away from the struggles of a new state.
Inspired by his elder brother, who tragically died at a young age, Zareef carved his own unique identity in the showbiz industry and helped revolutionise the trend of comedy heroes in Lollywood and broke away from the traditional heroes cast in tragic and romantic roles.
During his brief, yet illustrious career, Zareef acted in over 300 movies alongside fellow comedians like Ali Ejaz, Nanha, Rangeela, Laheri, and Albela.
It was his iconic partnership with Rangeela which gave pause to the industry and considered casting the dynamic duo as comedy heroes. The two starred in hit movies such as Rangeela Aur Munawar Zareef, Sacha Jutha, Parde Me Rehne Do, and Hath Jori.
His abrupt, impeccable comic timing and exceptional dialogue delivery made him an iconic figure in Pakistan's film industry. His memorable performance as Kaedu in the blockbuster movie Heer Ranjha showcased his artistic brilliance.
Zareef, however, went far too soon, passing away at the tender age of 35 in 1976 in Lahore.