Naseer Soomro – tallest man in Pakistan
Naseer Soomro is recognized as the one of the world tallest man, living Pakistani, standing at an impressive height of 2.36 meters (7 feet 9 inches). He gained national and international recognition due to his extraordinary stature, making him a prominent figure in Pakistan. Before the passing of Zia Rasheed in 2024, who stood at eight feet, Soomro was considered the second tallest man in the country.
Early Life and Background
Naseer Soomro hails from the Shikarpur District of Sindh, Pakistan. Naseer Soomro height set him apart from an early age, making him a notable personality in his community. Despite the challenges that come with exceptional height, Soomro has led an accomplished life, balancing both professional and personal responsibilities.
Professional Career
Soomro is employed as a Senior Passenger Handling Services Officer in the Customer Services department of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the country’s national flag carrier. His presence at PIA has made him a familiar and respected figure among colleagues and travelers.
International Recognition
In 1999, Soomro traveled to Taichung, Taiwan, where he spent four months as a sporting ambassador. This opportunity helped him gain international exposure, highlighting his unique stature and bringing attention to Pakistan on a global platform. Over the years, he has visited 22 countries and was even offered permanent residency abroad. However, being a patriotic Pakistani, he declined these offers, choosing instead to serve his homeland despite the challenges he faced.
Challenges and Health Issues
Life as an exceptionally tall individual comes with its challenges. In 2019, Soomro became the subject of a false death hoax, which created widespread confusion and concern among his well-wishers. Misleading Facebook posts and viral images claimed he had passed away.
Naseer Soomro personally debunked the rumors in an interview, stating, “I am alive and speaking to you and I don’t understand what people get from spreading such false news.” The Pakistan International Airlines , where he is employed, also confirmed that he was alive and still working for the company.
Currently, he is battling chronic lung disease, a condition that has affected his health and well-being. The 46-year-old man was hospitalized under critical condition and kept in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for several days before he was shifted to a private room of the hospital after his condition improved. Dr. Shehzad of Darul Sehat Hospital said Soomro remained on a ventilator for six days. “Soomro was suffering from a lung ailment and was now fast recovering at the hospital.”
Tragically, Soomro has battled his illness for eight years without receiving any financial or medical support from the government. Neither the Governor of Sindh nor the federal government came to his aid, leaving him to struggle alone. Despite being a national figure and a source of pride for Pakistan and Sindh.
He has not been granted even the basic assistance to cover his living expenses. His monthly costs, including electricity bills and basic necessities, amount to approximately PKR 60,000 (USD 200), yet the Sindh government has not extended any help.
Additionally, Naseer Soomro has faced difficulties due to his extraordinary height, including struggling to find a life partner. Despite these challenges, he continues to inspire many with his resilience and determination.
Legacy and Influence
Naseer Soomro’s towering height has made him a public figure in Pakistan, where he is admired for his perseverance and professional achievements. His contributions as a sporting ambassador and his dedication to his career at PIA reflect his commitment to leading a meaningful life beyond the fame of his height.
His journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing how individuals can overcome challenges and achieve success despite physical limitations. Naseer Soomro remains a celebrated personality, representing Pakistan with pride and dignity, even when the very country he loves has failed to support him in his time of need.