Sofia Bano

Sofia Bano (23 October 1938 – 20 November 2024) was a prominent Pakistani film actress and singer who worked in the Lollywood film industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Her first role as a lead heroine was intended for the film Sehra, but the project was never completed beyond its song recordings and opening ceremony.

In 1966, she starred as a lead heroine opposite Muhammad Ali in Akelay Na Jana, which was a moderate box-office success. During this period, she also appeared in Azadi Ya Mout (1966), a war drama set during the 1965 Kashmir war, where she played the character Reshama, followed by Ham Dono, a film where she starred opposite Syed Kamal in a double role.

Transition to character roles and peak success (1969–1973) As her leading roles were able to gain moderate commercial traction, Bano transitioned into more complex supporting and character roles. In 1969, she appeared in the adult-certified social drama Neela Parbat, one of the first Pakistani films inspired by Italian neorealism. She played the patient and devoted wife of Muhammad Ali, a role that showcased her range in traditional family dramas.

For her performance in Parday Mein Rehnay Do, she won the Nigar Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1973.

Awards and recognition Year Award Category Result Title Ref. 1973 Nigar Award Best Supporting Actress Parday Mein Rehnay Do