Anwer Maqsood, a Pakistani author, is known for his diverse writings including poetry, short stories, travelogues, and translations. Despite being a medical graduate from Nishtar Medical College, Multan, Zahidi gained fame primarily as a “modern” poet, also known as Nazam-e-Azad. He has translated works by Hermann Hesse and Carl Jung into Urdu for the National Language Authority, along with other literary masterpieces from Arabic, Turkish, and Latin American literature. One of his notable translations is Pablo Neruda’s autobiography.

On the other hand, Anwar Maqsood Hameedi is a renowned figure in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. With roles as a television scriptwriter, host, satirist, humorist, and occasional actor, he has left a significant mark. Associated with Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV) for many years, Maqsood contributed to numerous shows including Studio Dhai, Studio Ponay Teen, and Show-Sha. He penned scripts for popular television series and plays such as Fifty-Fifty, Aangan Terha, and Sitara aur Mehrunnisa. His stage plays like Pawney 14 August and Sawa 14 August were immensely successful. Maqsood’s work extended to ARY TV where he worked as a director and presenter for nearly 15 years, with his program “Loose Talk” gaining significant popularity. His contributions to Pakistani culture earned him the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz award.

Family and Life

Anwar Maqsood was born on September 7, 1939, in Hyderabad State. He grew up in PIB Colony, Karachi, after his family migrated there in 1948 following Pakistan’s creation. He attended Gulbarga Trust School in Aurangabad.

Coming from a prominent family, Maqsood has well-known siblings. His sister, Fatima Surayya Bajia, was a renowned writer. Another sister, Zehra Nigah, is a respected poet. One of his brothers, Ahmed Maqsood, served as Chief Secretary Sindh. Zubaida Tariq, his sister, was a famous cooking expert.

His wife, Imrana Maqsood, is a noted novelist, and his son, Bilal Maqsood, is a prominent rock artist who led the band Strings. He also has a daughter.

Imrana Maqsood wrote a book about Anwar Maqsood’s life and work titled “Uljhey Suljhey Anwar.” Anwar’s family background and their contributions to various fields have added to his own accomplishments, making him a significant figure in Pakistani culture and arts.

Anwar Maqsood’s Career As A Writer

Anwar Maqsood embarked on his writing journey in the 1960s, contributing satirical columns to the Karachi-based newspaper “Daily Jang.” These columns gained immense popularity for their witty commentary on social and political matters.

Transitioning to television in the 1970s, Maqsood emerged as a prominent writer in Pakistani entertainment. He penned iconic drama serials like “Aangan Terha,” “Sona Chandi,” and “Half Plate,” which are hailed as classics in Pakistani television history.

Maqsood’s writing is celebrated for its incisive social commentary, humor, and ability to tackle significant issues with charm and wit. He has showcased his versatility across various forms of writing, including plays, columns, and books, alongside television dramas.

Anwar Maqsood’s early contributions as a writer laid the groundwork for his enduring impact on Pakistani literature and entertainment. Through his insightful and entertaining work, he continues to shape conversations and captivate audiences, cementing his legacy as a prolific and influential figure in Pakistani culture.

Khalid Butt Actor Remembering a Beloved Acting Legend

Popularity Of Anwar Maqsood Via Dramas

He gained impressive popularity as a columnist, but later he knew his writing has humor that he needed to take out and he did.

Anwar Maqsood’s work is known for its wit, humor, and ability to address important social issues. He has a unique style of writing that combines satire, comedy, and drama to create compelling stories that resonate with audiences.

His most famous works include the television dramas “Aangan Terha,” “Sona Chandi,” and “Half Plate,” which are considered classics of Pakistani television. He has also written several successful stage plays, including “Sawa 14 August,” “Pawnay 14 August,” and “Ponay Chauda August,” which have been performed to packed audiences across Pakistan.

Talking about the dramas, Anwar Maqsood shared his views on the current drama industry in which he claimed that “the more shameless, the higher rating.”

He even shared this with his fans, and that is why he stopped writing for the TV industry.

Anwar Maqsood’s Career As A Writer

He began his career as a writer in the 1960s by writing satirical columns for the daily newspaper “Daily Jang” in Karachi, Pakistan. His columns were widely read and became very popular for their humorous take on social issues and politics.

In the 1970s, Anwar Maqsood started writing for television and became one of the most prominent writers in the Pakistani entertainment industry. He wrote several popular drama serials, including “Aangan Terha,” “Sona Chandi,” and “Half Plate,” which are considered classics of Pakistani television.

Anwar Maqsood’s work as a writer is known for its sharp social commentary, humor, and ability to address important issues engagingly and entertainingly. He is also known for his versatility as a writer, having written plays, columns, and books in addition to television dramas.

Anwar Maqsood Quotes

• “The only thing that is constant in life is change.”
• “A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.”
• “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
• “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
• “The only way to have a good life is to have a good sense of humor.”
• “The only thing that is harder than learning is pretending to know it all.”
• “The only thing that is more frustrating than a bad joke is a good one that nobody gets.”
• “The only thing that is more dangerous than an idea is a belief.”
• “The only thing that is more powerful than an enemy is a friend.”
• “The only thing that is more important than the present is the future.”

In conclusion

In conclusion, Anwar Maqsood is a notable Pakistani celebrity, celebrated for his remarkable achievements as a writer, playwright, humorist, and television personality. His unique talent and ability to intertwine comedy with social issues have made him a beloved figure in Pakistani entertainment. Maqsood’s remarkable contribution to literature and the performing arts has solidified his place as an influential and respected celebrity in Pakistan.