Veteran Indian expat journalist passes away

Sharief Aslam, a veteran Urdu journalist, humorist, anchor and prominent member of the Indian community in Jeddah, died early on Monday morning. He was in his 80s.
He was a regular feature at social and community events and had endeared himself to everyone with his quick wit and repartee. Aslam helped organize many Urdu poetry events during his three decades in Jeddah. Two of his children, Aman and Imran, are accomplished doctors.
He worked at Abdul Latif Jameel Company for many years. He was the president of a number of forums and a member of several associations. He came from the historic south Indian city of Hyderabad but had many fans among expatriates from all over India and Pakistan.
On WhatsApp and various Internet community forums, he was described as an extremely good man. “He never let an opportunity slip to make people happy,” said one participant. “He was full of life and laughter,” said another.
He had a 50-year stint in Urdu journalism during which he interviewed top-ranking litterateurs, poets, politicians and film stars. For his excellent services to journalism and the community, Bazm-e-Ittehad group had honored him with the Salar-e-Millat award in Jeddah in February this year.
“That was a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the community,” said Bazm-e-Ittehad chief and prominent community leader Ahmeduddin Owaisi. “He deserved it and was very happy to receive it. We will miss him. May Allah grant Sharief Aslam a high place in Paradise,” he said.
“My father’s funeral prayers will be held on Tuesday at Jawhara Mosque in Jeddah’s Aziziya district after Asr,” Aman Aslam told Arab News last night. He thanked the community for its support to the family.