Sada-e-Watan
Sydney ™
sadaewatan@gmail.com
Riaz Shah
Renowned singer Riaz Shah
passes away in Sydney
UPDATED 2
AUG 2018 - 3:22PM
Renowned singer Riaz Shah passes away in Sydney
Language English - By Talib Haider
The
local community is shocked and saddened by the death of Riaz Shah.
Friends and community members have expressed deep condolences for the loved
member of the community.
Consul General of Pakistan in Sydney, Abdul Majid Yousfani told SBS Urdu, Mr Riaz Shah
was a thorough gentleman and a wonderful human being.
“He had special
attachment and love for Pakistan. He used to sing national songs for
Independence Day celebrations as a token of love for the homeland.
We
will always miss him.
May Allah rest his soul in peace and provide
courage to everyone including his family and friends to bear this
loss.”
President of Pakistan Association of Australian, Abbas
Rana said we are extremely saddened by the news.
Known as the
‘Melody King’ Mr Shah’s singing career spanned over 25 years involving
television, radio and community events.
In an interview given to SBS Urdu
three years ago, Riaz Shah talked about his early days in school and love of
singing.
“During my school days, I used to sing the national anthem and
other songs which the audience loved.
I also participated in
inter-school competitions and programs.
In college, there was a
university magazine show which helped me in performing for Peshawar
radio.
The response from the people was amazing as they loved my voice
and singing.
This paved the way for me for television, where I sang in
different programs and TV shows.”
After moving to Sydney, Mr Shah quickly
became part of the community and performed in shows including Independence day
events and other music functions.
His voice was often compared to the
famous South Asian singer, Mohammad Rafi.
Known for his beautiful voice
and courteous nature Mr Shah was a household name in the Pakistan
community.
Sydney based journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Sada-e-Watan,
Syed Zafar Hussain said Riaz Shah came to
Sydney in 1990s and had been a part of local community.
“It is extremely
sad; I just met him at a local function last week. He was a great friend and
with a courteous personality.”
Mr Riaz Shah’s
funeral prayers will be held in Lakemba Mosque after Friday prayers (3rd August
2018).
https://www.sbs.com.au/yourlanguage/urdu/en/article/2018/08/02/renowned-singer-riaz-shah-passes-away-sydney
Follow SBS Urdu on Facebook and Twitter.