PESHAWAR — Mirawas, the acclaimed Pashto comedian whose humor captured the heart of a generation, has died at the age of 70.
He passed away on Thursday (3 April) at Hayatabad Medical Complex, his family confirmed, after a prolonged struggle with diabetes and kidney disease. In his final months, the complications of his illness led to the amputation of one of his legs due to severe infection.
Born Hayat Khan in 1955 in Tangi, Charsadda, Mirawas’s rise to fame was nothing short of remarkable. Coming from a humble farming family, he worked alongside his relatives in the fields, but his passion for comedy soon set him on a different path. In the 1980s, as Pashto drama and television blossomed, Mirawas found his voice, becoming a household name through his ability to blend humor with the everyday struggles of life.
His performances—whether on stage, television, or live shows—were more than just laughter; they were windows into the lives of ordinary people, often laced with pointed social commentary.
Mirawas was widely known for his quick wit and unmatched stage presence. He was one of the few stand-up comedians in the Pashto-speaking world, and his shows were often a blend of sharp observations and humor drawn from daily life. His humor transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, touching audiences far beyond Pashto speakers. In the eyes of many, he was the “Umer Sharif of Pashto,” a title that reflects his enduring influence and artistry.
However, despite his prominence within Pashto entertainment, Mirawas’s reach was limited by the smaller platforms available to regional artists. While his peers in other languages reached wider national audiences, Mirawas remained a towering figure within his own community, known and loved for his authentic portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.
In addition to his on-stage performances, Mirawas’s legacy extended into Pashto literature. His book, Gap da Mirawas (The Gossip of Mirawas), which translates to Haqiqat pa Toqo Toqo ke (“Facts in a Light Vein”), offered a glimpse into his unique perspective on life, blending humor with deeper reflections on society and human nature.
Mirawas’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Fans, colleagues, and admirers have flooded social media to honor his memory, recalling the joy he brought to their lives through his performances and his distinctive voice. He will be laid to rest in his hometown of Tangi on 4 April.
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