JournalismPakistan.com | Published June 09, 2024
Join our WhatsApp channel
RAWALPINDI—The world of broadcasting mourns the loss of Taskeen Zafar, the legendary voice of Radio Pakistan, who passed away in Rawalpindi on Sunday at the age of 67 after a brief illness. Born in Rawalpindi in 1957, Taskeen's illustrious career in broadcasting spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
She began her journey with Radio Pakistan in 1980 as an announcer. Her eloquent voice and unique style quickly set her apart, making her a beloved figure in households across Pakistan. Over the years, she not only read the news but also hosted various programs on Radio Pakistan's news and current affairs channels. Her versatility extended to Pakistan Television, where she presented news and hosted music programs, further cementing her status as a media icon.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field of broadcasting, Taskeen Zafar was awarded the prestigious Presidential Pride of Performance last year. This accolade was a testament to her dedication, skill, and the impact she had on Pakistani media.
The news of Taskeen Zafar's passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans, and government officials. Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, expressed his sorrow, stating, "Taskeen Zafar was a talented and experienced newscaster. Her death has resulted in an irreparable loss not only to Radio Pakistan but to the entire media industry." He extended his heartfelt condolences to her family and prayed for her eternal peace.
Secretary of Information and Broadcasting, Shahera Shahid, also expressed deep sorrow, calling her an asset to Radio Pakistan. She noted that the void created by her demise could never be filled and extended her condolences to Taskeen's family.
Director General Radio Pakistan, Saeed Ahmed Shaikh, praised Taskeen's matchless services in the broadcasting field, saying, "Radio Pakistan lost a great asset today. Taskeen Zafar earned nationwide recognition as a newscaster and will remain a source of inspiration and pride for us in the times ahead. She will be dearly missed."
Taskeen Zafar's legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. Her eloquence and dedication inspired many aspiring broadcasters and journalists. Her voice, a constant in many people's lives, brought news and stories with a unique warmth and reliability that will be fondly remembered.
As we bid farewell to a broadcasting legend, Taskeen Zafar's contributions to Pakistani media will continue to resonate. Her work, recognized by both peers and the public, ensures that her legacy will endure, inspiring future generations in the world of journalism and broadcasting.
March 07, 2025: Former Suno TV anchor Paras Jahanzaib breaks silence on her sudden removal, exposing government pressure tactics against journalists who refuse to follow official narratives in Pakistan.
February 06, 2025: Pakistani women journalists like Munizae Jahangir and Asma Shirazi face severe threats, harassment, and online abuse. This article explores the struggles of women in media, the systemic challenges, and potential solutions to ensure press freedom and journalist safety.
January 13, 2025: Prominent journalist Asma Shirazi faces relentless online harassment in a coordinated campaign involving gendered disinformation. Press freedom groups demand immediate action to protect female journalists in Pakistan.
November 09, 2024: In a sharp rebuttal, anchor Asma Shirazi responded to Moeed Pirzada's allegations, calling him a one-time puppet of the establishment and questioning his commitment to democratic values and human rights.
October 18, 2024: GNN anchor Samina Pasha resigns due to pressure from certain quarters, underscoring concerns over media freedom in Pakistan. She highlights the sacrifices made by journalists for speaking the truth.
September 30, 2024: Dr. Sadia Kamal has made history by becoming the first female president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ-Workers), a significant milestone for her career and Pakistani journalism. Learn about her exceptional journey, years of service, leadership in various media roles, and dedication to ethical journalism.
September 28, 2024: Explore the alarming rise of online trolling and harassment faced by women journalists in Pakistan, highlighting recent cases involving anchors like Shiffa Z. Yousafzai and Asma Chaudhry. This article delves into the societal challenges these women encounter and the urgent need for action against online abuse
September 27, 2024: TV anchor Shiffa Z. Yousafzai has refuted false rumors about her marriage, calling attention to the harassment working women face in a male-dominated society. She urges social media platforms to remove false content and calls people to stand against such targeting.
April 11, 2025 Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.
April 10, 2025 The Azad Jammu and Kashmir government has filed a case against The Daily Jammu & Kashmir and its staff for alleged fake news, drawing condemnation from PFUJ and IFJ, who demand immediate withdrawal of the FIR and an end to media repression in Pakistan.
April 08, 2025 Journalist Arzoo Kazmi alleges that Pakistan's state agencies, including the FIA, have blocked her CNIC, passport, and bank account while threatening her. She calls it a direct attack on journalism.
April 07, 2025 The Islamabad High Court has directed IG Islamabad to produce journalist Ahmad Noorani’s missing brothers, as the Ministry of Defence denies custody. SIM activity was traced in Bahawalpur, and investigations into their suspected abduction continue.
April 07, 2025 Journalist and Raftar founder Farhan Mallick has been granted bail by a Karachi court in a case concerning anti-state content aired on his YouTube channel. He still faces separate charges related to an alleged illegal call center and data theft.