KARACHI: Prominent philanthropist and former journalist Shakeel Dehalvi was laid to rest in Karachi on Monday, as hundreds of admirers gathered to pay their final respects.
He passed away following a brief illness on Sunday.
A large number of people from all walks of life attended the funeral, many sharing personal stories of his kindness, humility, and unwavering support for those in need.
Born in 1947 in New Delhi, India, Dehalvi had a long and distinguished career in both journalism and the welfare sector.
His funeral prayers were held at Alamgir Masjid, and he was laid to rest at Khurshidpura Graveyard on Hub River Road.
Dehalvi served as Director of Public Relations and Joint Secretary (General) at Alamgir Welfare Trust, an organisation he joined over three decades ago when it was still in its formative stages.
With his vision and leadership, he played a pivotal role in transforming the trust into one of the country’s most respected and expansive charitable institutions, now operating with an annual budget exceeding Rs3 billion.
He began his journalism career as a city reporter and rose to become Executive Editor of Monthly Alamgir Times — Pakistan’s first magazine dedicated to the NGO sector. He also covered Indian elections for a Pakistani publication as special correspondent.
In addition to his work in journalism and social welfare, Dehalvi also served as Secretary of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI). He once stood in local body elections in Karachi but later chose to step away from politics to devote himself fully to public service.
A communications specialist of high calibre, he also established an advertising agency.
Those who knew Dehalvi remember him not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his warmth, generosity, and character. He was widely regarded as a kind-hearted soul. He was readily available to anyone in need and would go out of his way to offer support without hesitation.
Often described as a “shajar-e-saya-daar”— he was a man of humility, compassion, and integrity. He embodied true selflessness and was among those rare individuals whose left hand did not know the good done by the right.
