Tariq Aziz (TV personality) facts for kids

Tariq Aziz (born April 28, 1936 – died June 17, 2020) was a very famous Pakistani television host, poet, and film actor. He was best known for his popular quiz show Neelam Ghar on PTV. This show first started in 1974 and was later renamed Tariq Aziz Show and then Bazm-e-Tariq Aziz. People often remember him for his famous opening line: "Dekhti Aankhon, Sunte Kaanon Tariq Aziz ka Salam" (To seeing eyes and listening ears, Tariq Aziz's greetings).

He was the very first person to appear on television in Pakistan. Besides his media career, he also served as a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan from 1997 to 1999.

Early Life and Education

Tariq Aziz was born in 1936 in Jalandhar, which was then part of British India. His family moved to Sahiwal, Pakistan in 1947. He completed his early education in Jalandhar and later graduated from Government College Sahiwal.

Career Highlights

Aziz began his career in media at Radio Pakistan in 1961. When Pakistan Television (PTV) started broadcasting in November 1964 from Lahore, Tariq Aziz was the first person to be seen on screen. He became PTV's first male announcer.

Television Success

Tariq Aziz became very popular as a TV host, especially with his quiz show Neelam Ghar. This show was a huge hit and helped him become a household name. On his show, he interviewed many important people, including famous thinkers, sports stars, and celebrities.

He also appeared as a guest on another game show called Inam Ghar. He answered all the questions without any help, which was quite impressive. He then gave all the prizes he won to a charity that helps people in need.

Acting in Films

Tariq Aziz also acted in several Pakistani films. He appeared alongside famous actors like Waheed Murad and Zeba in the 1967 film Insaniyat. He also acted in movies such as "Haar Gaya Insaan" and Qasam us Waqt Ki (1969). One of his notable films was Salgira (1969), which was a very successful musical movie and won two Nigar Awards.

Involvement in Politics

Tariq Aziz was interested in politics from his college days. He joined the Pakistan Peoples Party in 1970. He was known for his energetic speeches at political rallies. Later, he joined the Pakistan Muslim League (N) in 1996 and was elected as a member of the Pakistan National Assembly from Lahore. He also joined the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) during Pervez Musharraf's time. After his political career, he returned to the entertainment industry.

Literary Works

Tariq Aziz was also a talented poet and writer, especially in the Punjabi language. Some of his books include:

• Hamzad Da Dukh (ہمزاد دا دکھ): A collection of his poetry in Punjabi.
• Iqbal Shanasi (اقبال شناسی): A book about the famous poet Allama Iqbal.
• Hazar Dastaan: A collection of his Urdu newspaper columns.
• Footpath sy Parliament tak: A book written by Tariq Aziz.

Philanthropy

Tariq Aziz was known for his kindness and love for books and poetry. He was a philanthropist, meaning he cared about helping others. In 2018, he announced that since he had no children, he planned to donate all his earnings for the welfare of his country. This act of generosity touched many hearts and made him a role model for many people.

Death

Tariq Aziz passed away on June 17, 2020, in Lahore, at the age of 84. He was laid to rest in the Garden Town graveyard in Lahore, next to his mother's grave.

Awards and Recognition

• Pride of Performance Award: He received this prestigious award from the President of Pakistan in 1992 for his great contributions to the nation.
• Best Host Award: He won this award at the 9th PTV Awards in 1998.