Veteran Actress Ayesha Khan Found Dead in Karachi Home at 76, Leaving Behind a Storied Legacy
Renowned Pakistani television actress Ayesha Khan, celebrated for her impactful roles in classic dramas, was discovered dead in her apartment in Karachi.
Her body was found nearly a week after her passing, triggering widespread mourning in the entertainment industry.
Discovery in Gulshan-e-Iqbal
The 76-year-old actress was discovered in her residence in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 7, Karachi, as reported by Express Tribune. Her body was found in a decomposed state, a week after her demise. Born on November 22, 1948, Ayesha Khan was the elder sister of the late iconic actress Khalida Riyasat.
Authorities were alerted when neighbours noticed a foul smell emanating from her flat. Upon arrival, police confirmed that the veteran actress had been deceased for several days.
Her body was transported to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for a postmortem examination. The exact time and cause of her death are yet to be determined.
Following medical formalities, her remains were shifted to the Edhi Foundation mortuary in Sohrab Goth.
Pioneering Career in Pakistani Entertainment
Ayesha Khan rose to fame during the golden age of Pakistan Television (PTV). She began her journey at Radio Pakistan before moving to television in 1964.
Over the years, she earned immense popularity for her commanding performances in well-known dramas such as Afshan, Aroosa, Shaam Se Pehle, Family 93, and Mehndi.
Her other acclaimed serials include Akhri Chattan, Tipu Sultan: The Tiger Lord, Dehleez, Daraarein, Bol Meri Machli, and Ek Aur Aasman. Her acting skills, marked by grace and authenticity, made her a household name and a mentor figure for many upcoming artists.
In addition to her television career, Ayesha Khan acted in several Pakistani films including Muskaan and Fatima. She also appeared in the Indian film Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman.
Tributes Pour In
The news of her death was first shared by actor Khaled Anam via an emotional Instagram post. “With profound sadness, we share the news of legendary Pakistani actress Ayesha Khan passing away this June 2025,” he wrote, sparking an outpouring of grief across social media.
President of the Arts Council of Pakistan, Ahmed Shah, described her passing as “a profound loss” for the drama industry. Actor Adnan Siddiqui, known for Gentleman, also paid a heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
“I met her on the set of Aroosa, my very first drama; I was a rookie then, a true greenhorn with only a few modelling assignments and commercials to my name.
She was my on-screen mother but brought a compassion reminiscent of a maternal figure, a presence that soothed, grounded and made a space feel more human,” Siddiqui recalled.
He added, “In an industry that can often be brisk, brusque and bustling, Ayesha jee carried herself with a calm dignity. She was never loud, never needing to prove anything — her craft did all the talking.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Ayesha Khan lived alone in her apartment and was reportedly facing health issues. She was the daughter of Riyasat-ullah Khan, a former superintendent of Karachi police.
She was also the elder sister of Khalida Riyasat, a legendary figure in Pakistani television who dominated screens from the mid-1970s to the mid-1990s.
Her death marks the end of an era in Pakistani entertainment. She is survived by a son and a daughter. Known for her poise and emotive range, Ayesha Khan left behind a legacy that continues to influence Pakistani drama and cinema.
Her performances have not only captivated audiences but also inspired generations of actors who followed in her footsteps.
Her loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the Pakistani entertainment industry, but her body of work ensures that she will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
