Veteran Pakistani television actress Ayesha Hussain Khan has died at the age of 76‑77 in her Karachi home, marking the end of an era for fans of classic PTV dramas. Her death was confirmed on June 20, 2025.
Local authorities discovered Ayesha Khan’s body in her flat located in Gulshan‑e‑Iqbal, Karachi, after neighbors reported a foul odor emanating from her residence.
A Quiet and Tragic Passing
The body reportedly showed signs of being left unattended for nearly a week, suggesting she passed away several days earlier, potentially in the bathroom behind closed doors
Police escorted the remains to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, followed by placement at Edhi Foundation’s morgue in Sohrab Goth, pending autopsy and legal formalities. Initial reports suggest her death was natural, though official medical verification is still underway, awaiting her son’s arrival.
A Glimpse into a Five‑Decade‑Long Career
Local authorities discovered Ayesha Khan’s body in her flat located in Gulshan‑e‑Iqbal, Karachi, after neighbors reported a foul odor emanating from her residence. The body reportedly showed signs of being left unattended for nearly a week, suggesting she passed away several days earlier, potentially in the bathroom behind closed doors.
Police escorted the remains to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, followed by placement at Edhi Foundation’s morgue in Sohrab Goth, pending autopsy and legal formalities. Initial reports suggest her death was natural, though official medical verification is still underway, awaiting her son’s arrival.
A Glimpse into a Five‑Decade‑Long Career
Born on August 22, 1948, in Karachi, Ayesha Khan holds a distinguished place in Pakistani television history. Her acting career, initiated in the 1960s, flourished at PTV during the 1980s and 1990s, where she became known for her emotional depth and subtle charisma.
She delivered standout performances in numerous classic serials, including Afshan, Uroosa, Aanch, Bandhan, Shaam Se Pehle, Family 93, Mehndi, Naqab Zan, Bharosa Pyar Tera, and Bisaat‑e‑Dil arynews.tv+7dawn.com+7en.wikipedia.org+7. In Afshan, she portrayed an emotionally tormented woman raising her children and niece alone after Partition, a role widely remembered for its quiet strength.
Sister of a Screen Icon
Ayesha was not only celebrated for her own talent but also known as the elder sister of the late Khalida Riyasat (1953–1996), another PTV great. The siblings together represented an era of nuanced, powerful television performances.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Ayesha Khan’s legacy lies in her character‑driven performances, conveyed through subtle expression rather than embellishment. Her revival of ordinary, strong women resonated through public consciousness, influencing actors for decades.
Her style—calm, controlled, and deeply human—still inspires modern-day actors and serves as a benchmark in Pakistani television history. Many fans are calling for tribute specials on PTV and archival preservation of her work.
What Happens Next
Funeral rites and prayer timings will be announced once her family completes other arrangements. Meanwhile, colleagues, media outlets, and fans continue to share memories and celebrate her immense contribution to the arts.
In Retrospect
Ayesha Khan’s passing is a poignant reminder of the golden era of Pakistani drama. Her gentle yet powerful portrayals, familial dedication to performance, and unwavering professionalism endeared her to audiences and peers alike.
Today’s loss is Pakistan’s cultural mourning—her legacy lives on through classic dramas that continue to inspire and console hearts nationwide.