Karachi: The Pakistani entertainment industry mourns the loss of veteran actress Ayesha Khan, who was discovered deceased in her apartment in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi. Her death has left a deep void in the world of drama and television.

According to police reports, Ayesha Khan had been living alone, and her body is believed to have remained undiscovered for nearly a week. Concerned by a persistent foul smell, neighbours alerted her family, prompting authorities to investigate. Upon arrival, law enforcement transferred the body to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) for medico-legal procedures.

Following initial formalities, the deceased was moved to the Edhi Foundation’s mortuary in Sohrab Goth. Officials stated that a post-mortem will be carried out depending on her family’s consent.

Funeral arrangements, including the time and location of her last rites, will be shared by the family in due course.

Ayesha Khan was celebrated for her iconic roles in classic Pakistan Television (PTV) dramas such as Afshan, Uroosa, Aanch, Bandhan, and Shaam Se Pehle. Born in 1948, she was the elder sister of renowned actress Khalida Riasat, who passed away in 1996.

In Afshan, one of her most memorable performances, Ayesha portrayed a woman burdened by separation, raising two children alone after her husband and brother fled the country during the Partition.

Paying tribute, Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan, described her passing as a monumental loss to Pakistan’s drama industry, highlighting her five-decade-long contribution to the arts.

Ayesha Khan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike.