Top artists to peform in Rangeela tribute show

Dubai: Some of Pakistan's top film, television and stage artists will perform in Dubai to pay tribute to the late Rangeela — their country's legendary comedian.

The show In Memory of Rangeela The Legend will be held at Wonderland Park in Dubai on November 12.

"It is the first show being organised outside Pakistan to pay tribute to the great comedian who also produced and directed several films in the golden era of Lollywood — the Pakistani film industry," Rangeela's daughter Farah Deeba told journalists in Dubai.

She said that proceeds from the show would go to the Rangeela Welfare Foundation which helps unemployed people associated with the ailing Pakistani film industry and also provides medical treatment to the poor, especially low-paid workers in the film studios.

Deeba, who is also a parliamentarian and member of the Punjab Provincial Assembly, said her father Mohammad Saeed, known as Rangeela, served the film industry for 42 years until his death on May 24, 2005.

He acted in 666 films, 250 television plays and countless stage plays. Though he earned his name as a top comedian, he was also a director, producer, singer, musician and worked behind the camera.

Those coming to Dubai to pay tribute include famous film stars such as Mustafa Quraishi, Nadeem Baig, Veena Malek, living legend Amanullah, Arif Lohar and Khayam Rangeela (Rangeel's son). Director Mahesh Bhatt has also been invited to the show because he was a good friend of Rangeela.

The show will feature performances of famous songs from Rangeela's films and performances by comedians such as Amanullah.

Deeba thanked the Pakistani community in the UAE for their support for the show. "Their great support for the show clearly shows their love for the great actor," she said.

The show's key sponsors include Air Blue and Western Union.

Where to get tickets

Tickets for the show are priced at Dh50, 100 and 175 and are available at various Pakistani restaurants and the box office at Wonderland Park. Those interested in attending the show can also call 050-5081769 and 055-6166977.