Athar Waqar Azeem, a veteran broadcast journalist, eminent producer, and a former general manager of PTV Karachi Centre, passed away in Karachi last month. Making lasting contributions to Pakistan’s TV industry, his distinguished career included his role as the founding member of the Hum Network as well. He was the son of Prof. Syed Waqar Azeem and the younger brother of the former managing director of PTV and Senior Vice President of Hum Network, Akhtar Waqar Azim.
In the most complex field of media and television production, Athar Waqar Azeem carved a significant niche for himself, mainly through his impactful work at PTV. Working alongside the first-generation team of PTV, which played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s broadcasting landscape, Ather made significant contributions, particularly in the fields of current affairs and sports—two challenging yet influential domains in media.
His affable personality was a key asset, enabling him to form strong professional relationships effortlessly. This sociability and professional acumen translated into successful teamwork, fostering a positive atmosphere in the workplace. With a career marked by creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to sports production, Azeem shaped the sports journalism and production benchmark and contributed to the country’s television landscape.
In an outstanding professional career spanning over fifty years, Athar Waqar Azeem produced and directed high-profile interviews of many sports and showbiz celebrities, such as Indian film actor Dilip Kumar, including several prime ministers and heads of state. He led the team which covered the 1987 Cricket World Cup as well as the historic cricket match in Sharjah, UAE, in which legendary cricketer Javed Miandad hit a historic six against India. Carrying an entire era of sports production with him, he covered many cricket, hockey, and squash tournaments.
As a founding member of Hum Network, Athar played a significant role in launching several TV channels, including Hum TV, Hum News, and Hum Masala.
In addition to his remarkable professional accomplishments, Athar Waqar Azeem was a multifaceted individual whose interests and passions extended far beyond the realm of TV production. His career in media was impressive, marked by significant contributions to the fields of current affairs and sports. Athar was not only a skilled producer but also a compassionate humanitarian, a deep admirer of literature, and a man of great stature in both character and intellect. He never sought recognition for his good deeds, choosing instead to act quietly and with humility.
Athar was not just a respected professional but also a dear friend and a gracious host. His warmth and generosity knew no bounds, as he welcomed people into his life and home with open arms. He was the kind of person who made others feel valued and at ease, creating an environment of genuine hospitality that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He maintained a calm and composed exterior, never burdening those around him with his troubles. Instead, he remained forgiving, friendly, and sincerely open-hearted, even towards those who may have wronged him. Athar’s door was always open, day and night, to anyone who needed his support or companionship.
Though Athar no longer is with us but he will always live in our hearts. 
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