Actor Sultan Rahi from Pakistan made headlines not just for the number of films he starred in, but for setting a Guinness World Record and becoming the highest-paid actor in the country during his time.
Known as the Clint Eastwood of Pakistan, Sultan Rahi was a colossal figure in the Pakistan film industry, boasting a staggering career spanning 40 years with a remarkable tally of 800 films. This unprecedented feat earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most prolific actor. Among these films, he appeared as the lead actor in 535 and took on double roles in 59, another record. His repertoire included 703 Punjabi films and 100 Urdu-language films, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor. Rahi’s exceptional talent garnered him over 160 awards throughout his illustrious career.
One of his most iconic roles was in the 1979 action film Maula Jatt which is considered a cult classic and a landmark in Pakistani cinema. The movie’s immense success catapulted Sultan Rahi to superstardom, solidifying his status as Lollywood’s biggest star. Maula Jatt enjoyed unprecedented popularity, achieving diamond jubilee status and running for an astounding 15 months in theatres. Its impact on the Pakistani cinema landscape was profound, reshaping the industry’s dynamics.
Tragically, Sultan Rahi’s life came to a premature end under distressing circumstances. While travelling with his friend Ahsan from Islamabad to Lahore, their vehicle encountered a flat tyre on the main highway. As they attempted to replace the tyre, they were confronted by thieves who ultimately shot and fatally wounded both friends. Sultan Rahi succumbed to his injuries on January 9, 1996, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in the film world.
Sultan Rahi started his cinematic journey with a guest role in the 1956 film Baghi. However, it was his breakthrough performance in the 1975 film Wehshi Jatt, an unofficial prequel to Maula Jatt, that propelled him into the limelight. Throughout his illustrious career, he left an indelible mark with notable works such as Behram Daku, Sher Khan, Sala Sahib and Ghulami, among others, cementing his status as a legend in Pakistani cinema.
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