LAHORE: Renowned columnist and poet Munir Ahmed Qureshi, known as Munnu Bhai, passed away on Friday. He was 84 years old. The senior journalist was suffering from kidney and cardiac problems for quite some time, and was also going through routine dialysis treatment. Munno Bhai was born in Wazirabad on February 6, 1933. He was affiliated with journalism for more than 25 years. He also wrote plays for Pakistan Television. His most famous was: ‘Sona Chandi’. It will always be remembered by his fans. In 2007, he was given Pride of Performance award by the state of Pakistan. Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed his condolences following news of Munno Bhai’s death. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of veteran columnist Munnu Bhai. According to an official statement, the prime minister lauded the role of Munnu Bhai in highlighting social issues and praised his standards of humanity throughout his life. The PM prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and to grant courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude. Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep sense of sorrow and grief over the death of senior journalist, intellectual and ace columnist Munnu Bhai and extended sympathies to the bereaved family. In his condolence message, he paid rich tribute to the journalistic and literacy services of late Munnu Bhai and said that he enjoyed a leading position in Urdu literature. He gave many innovative dimensions to Urdu column writing and his services would be remembered. He has also prayed that may Almighty Allah rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity. Published in Daily Times, January 20th 2018.