LAHORE  –  The 14th death anniversary of Lehri, the celebrated actor of the subcontinent who elevated comedy to new heights in the Urdu film industry, was observed here on Sunday. Safeerullah, popularly known as Lehri, a man who could weave the magic of comedy onto a serious countenance—ruled the hearts of film audiences for four decades. He set a new benchmark for comic acting through his distinctive style of speech, spontaneous wit and dignified humour. Born in India on January 2, 1929, Lehri began his film career in the 1950s and showcased his acting prowess in memorable films such as, Daman, Talash, Kaneez, and Tehzeeb. Lehri possessed a unique style, he knew the art of making people laugh solely through his dialogue delivery and facial expressions, without resorting to vulgarity or affectation.

Although Lehri—who left his fans in mourning when he passed away on September 13, 2012, is no longer among us, his work and the memories associated with him will live on forever.