ISLAMABAD: One of the most distinguished and respected voices in Pakistan’s broadcasting history, Ishrat Fatima, has quietly stepped away from her professional duties after nearly 45 years of dedicated service to radio and television.
In a brief farewell message, Ishrat Fatima described her decision to leave Radio Pakistan as an extremely difficult one, though she did not disclose the reasons behind it.
So far, no official statement has been issued by the institution regarding her departure.
Ishrat Fatima is among those rare broadcasters who did far more than simply read the news.
Through her command over language, refined diction, and graceful tone, she helped set a lasting standard for broadcast journalism. For decades, her voice remained closely associated with the identity of PTV’s news bulletins.
She began her career at Radio Pakistan with the program “Khel aur Khiladi.” In her early television days, she presented weather updates on PTV before rising to nationwide fame as the anchor of the 9 pm Urdu news bulletin.
Throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, her distinctive style and articulate delivery earned immense public appreciation.
After remaining affiliated with PTV until 2007, she returned to Radio Pakistan, where she continued contributing through current affairs programs.
She also had the honor of working with Voice of America during her illustrious career.
Senior journalist Fauzia Kulsoom Rana paid tribute to Ishrat Fatima, stating that her career was not merely defined by its length, but by countless impactful moments, events, and memorable broadcasts that were heard and remembered at both national and international levels.
She remarked that broadcasters of Ishrat Fatima’s grace, versatility, and dignity are rarely produced in the history of media.
Fauzia Kulsoom further noted that while recommendations and connections may open doors temporarily, genuine public trust, love, and respect can only be earned through hard work, integrity, and strong character, qualities that Ishrat Fatima embodied throughout her career.
Working alongside her, she said, was a source of learning and pride for every journalist.
Jaweria Siddiq, wife of late journalist Arshad Sharif, also praised Ishrat Fatima’s services.
Writing on social media platform X, she stated that multiple generations learned the art of speech, writing, and expression by listening to Ishrat Fatima on PTV.
She described her as humble, gracious, and deeply devoted to Pakistan.
Jaweria Siddiq further questioned the practice of letting such valuable assets depart institutions solely due to retirement.
She suggested that Ishrat Fatima could have continued serving in a mentoring or training role, allowing her vast experience to be passed on to younger generations.
There is no doubt that Ishrat Fatima’s voice, poise, and professional values will remain an enduring part of Pakistan’s broadcasting legacy for years to come.
