Yasmeen Tahir, Veteran Broadcaster of Radio Pakistan, Passes away in Lahore
By Dr A. Khan
Chicago, IL
Yasmeen Tahir, a distinguished broadcaster and cultural icon of Radio Pakistan, passed away in Lahore on Saturday, July 19, 2025, after a prolonged illness. She was 88 years old. Her funeral prayers were held after Asar, followed by burial in Lahore.
Born in Lahore in 1937, Yasmeen was the daughter of renowned literary figures Imtiaz Ali Taj and Hijab Imtiaz Ali. She received her education at Convent, Government College, and Kinnaird College. After completing her master’s degree in 1958, she joined Radio Pakistan as a publicity officer. Her association with broadcasting began even earlier, during the British Raj, when she participated in children’s programs at the Lahore Radio Station.
In 1960, Yasmeen married Naeem Tahir. Together, they pursued theater education at UCLA under a Rockefeller scholarship. The couple had three sons: Faran Tahir, Mehran Tahir, and Ali Tahir.
Yasmeen Tahir was a multifaceted artist who contributed to radio and television as a performer, host, and writer. Her professional career spanned over 37 years. Among her iconic radio programs were Subah Sawayray, Saat Rung, Fauji Bhaiyon Ke Liye, and the Western Music Request Show. She also appeared in several television serials, including Khuda Ki Basti (1969), Sona Chandi (1982), Sitara (2008), and Mohini Mansion Ki CinderellayaiN (2018).
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to broadcasting, she was awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan in 2015.
Yasmeen Tahir is survived by her husband, Naeem Tahir, and their three sons. May Allah (SWT) bless her soul and grant her the highest station in Jannat-ul-Firdous. Ameen.
