Renowned Pakistani screenwriter, producer and poet Asma Nabeel passed away on Friday. The Khaani writer lost her battle to cancer after a prolonged illness in Karachi. “With a heavy heart I have to break this news that my bhabhi, Asma Nabeel, is no longer with us,” a post on Asma’s Facebook account read. After the tragic news, a number of eminent stars came forth to condole Asma’s death. “Inna lillahe waina elahe rajaoon, its really heartbreaking to know that she is no more with us Broken heart… asma nabeel you left the world too soon ..brave woman , May Allah rest your soul in heaven . Aameen,” Aijaz Aslam wrote.
Although Asma’s body of work is limited, her impact and popularity are undeniable. The screenwriter worked on the hit show Khaani, as well as several other television serials including Khuda Mera Bhi Hai, Baandi and Surkh Chandni. Asma wrote strong characters who were part of important stories on pertinent topics, with Surkh Chandni depicting the life of an acid attack victim and how she speaks up against the injustice done to her. It also acknowledges and emphasises the legislation of acid and burns crime bills.
Khuda Mera Bhi Hai starred Aisha Khan as Mahgul, who gives birth to an intersex child. The series talks about many important topics such as domestic abuse, how divorce is considered taboo, social pressures, and most importantly, the rights of transgender people and intersex individuals in Pakistani society. Khaani, starring Feroze Khan and Sana Javed, shot to nationwide fame and propelled the lead actors to greater heights in the showbiz industry.
The writer was also known for her activism with reference to breast cancer awareness.
