Pakistani philanthropist Edhi's funeral held at Karachi

Thousands of people from all walks of life, including high-profile politicians and government officials, bid farewell to philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi during his funeral at Karachi's National Stadium on Saturday.

Edhi's funeral prayers were offered after Zuhr prayers and he was given a 'guard of honour' and a 19-gun salute by the Pakistan Army, reports the Dawn.

After the funeral, his body was taken to Edhi village, where he will be laid to rest.

Strict security measures were taken for the funeral.

President Mamnoon Hussain, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, his Sindh counterpart Qaim Ali Shah, Sindh Governor Ishratul Ibad, all three chiefs of the armed forces amongst others were present during the funeral.

Edhi passed away in Karachi last night at the age of 92 after a prolonged battle with different ailments.

Edhi who formed the famous Edhi village 25 years ago which was home to the homeless, destitute, street children, elderly, abandoned babies and addicts was Chairman of the Edhi Foundation which was celebrated for its humanitarian work.

Edhi's son Faisal Edhi had said that his father's cornea will be donated.

"He wished to be buried in the same clothes he used to wear. He also wanted to donate his body parts, but only his cornea can be donated as rest of the organs were not in healthy condition," said Faisal.

Edhi was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2013 but was unable to get a transplant due to frail health. He was receiving treatment at the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT).