'We are forever indebted to you': Celebrities mourn the loss of nuclear scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan

As Pakistan mourns the loss of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, the man who "helped us develop nation-saving nuclear deterrence", according to President Arif Alvi, the country's celebrities have also taken to social media to express their grief. Dr Khan passed away in Islamabad on Sunday morning and was given a state funeral.

Dr Khan played a vital role in making Pakistan a nuclear-weapon state. The 85-year-old's health deteriorated after being admitted to a hospital.

Several actors said the nation will be forever indebted to the nuclear scientist.

"Because of you, Pakistan can be face to face with any power in the world," singer Asim Azhar tweeted, sharing a common sentiment.

"The Master of Physics has taken another form," shared actor Rabia Butt.

Actor Saba Qamar thanked the late scientist for his services to the nation and sent "thoughts and prayers" to his loved ones.

Actor Imran Abbas expressed his grief at the nation's loss and said the late scientist merited a "standing ovation" for giving us "strength and power" with his contributions.

Cricketer Azhar Ali called him a hero of the nation.

Cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his grief and said Dr Khan had a very big role in his career. "His note of appreciation is one of my most cherished possessions."

Born in 1936 in Bhopal, India, Dr Khan immigrated with his family to Pakistan in 1947. He studied science at Karachi University in 1960 before studying metallurgical engineering in Berlin and completing his advanced studies in the Netherlands and Belgium. After learning of India's nuclear test in 1974, he joined the nation's efforts to develop a nuclear bomb.

The late scientist had been awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz for his services to the country.