On October 31, Google featured a special doodle in honor of the late Pakistani puppeteer, Farooq Qasier, affectionately known as “Uncle Sargam,” on what would have been his 78th birthday. Farooq Qasier, a distinguished graduate and gold medalist of Lahore’s National College of Arts, left an indelible mark on the world of puppetry and entertainment in Pakistan during the 80s and 90s.
Farooq Qasier is renowned for his creation of iconic puppet characters, such as “Uncle Sargam” and “Massi Museebtay,” which became beloved household names. He was a pioneer in the field of puppetry in Pakistan, commencing his career with the popular children’s puppet show “Akkar Bakkar.”
Among his other notable works are “Kaliyan,” “Sargam Sargam,” “Daak Time,” “Sargam Time,” “Siyasi Kaliyan,” and “Sargam.” Nevertheless, it was the characters “Uncle Sargam” and “Massi Museebtey” that achieved unparalleled fame and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in that era.
In a 2017 interview with Geo News, Farooq Qasier revealed that he entered the television industry almost by accident. Salima Hashmi, daughter of the renowned poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz and his teacher at NCA, offered him an opportunity to work in television. This fortuitous opportunity set him on a path to becoming an industry luminary.
When asked about the decline of the television industry, Qaiser emphasized the need for music, fine arts, and acting academies to nurture the next generation of talent and steer the industry toward a brighter future. He also lamented the diminishing role and stature of teachers, who were revered in his era.
After a remarkable career spanning approximately five decades, Farooq Qasier, the esteemed artist, sadly passed away on May 14, 2021, due to a cardiac arrest. His enduring legacy and contribution to the world of puppetry and entertainment continue to be celebrated and cherished by people of all ages in Pakistan and beyond.
