“Actor Shakeel was a big name in the art world."
Veteran Pakistani actor Shakeel passed away at the age of 85.
Known for his excellent acting skills in hit dramas such as Uncle Urfi, Angan Tehra and Ankahi, his family announced his passing on June 29, 2023.
Shakeel underwent bypass surgery a few years ago and also suffered from arthritis which caused him discomfort when walking, leaving him needing help in getting around.
The actor began his acting career and quickly rose to fame with his debut drama Shazori.
This was followed by Ankahi, where he played a strict boss who employs a careless secretary.
Shakeel boasted a natural screen presence and very quickly became a household name.
In 2012, Shakeel was said to be the ruler of the small screen and that no drama serials were complete without him.
In 2015, Shakeel was presented with the esteemed Sitara-e-Imtiaz for his contribution and loyalty to the entertainment industry.
Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Chief Minister paid tribute to the actor.
His spokesman said: “Actor Shakeel was a big name in the art world. His services will always be remembered.”
Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Punjab Interim Chief Minister also paid tribute to the actor and sent condolences to his family.
Fellow celebrities took to social media to pay their respects to the seasoned actor.
Faisal Qureshi tweeted: “With a heavy heart, I share the news that our dearest Yousuf Kamal SHAKEEL, the pride of our nation, the man who entertained us for the longest time [has] left us today.”
Veteran actor Bushra Ansari said on Instagram:
“You were a true hero. My dearest friend, Shakeel, just passed away.”
She went on to say it was as though someone had stepped on her heart and fondly called her Angan Tehra co-star by his character name Mehboob Ahmed.
Aijaz Aslam said: “Deeply saddened by the loss of a true icon, veteran actor Sir Yousuf Shakeel.
“His immense talent and contributions to the fraternity will always be cherished. May Allah grant him eternal peace in heaven. Rest in peace, dear Yousuf Shakeel Sir.”
Journalist Hamid Mir tweeted:
“Inna Lilahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’oon. Famous actor Shakeel is no longer in this world, he has saddened us on the day of Eid-Al-Adha. May Allah forgive him, Ameen.”
Saba Qamar said: “Inna Lilahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’oon.
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Shakeel Sahab.
“His contribution to the industry will always be remembered. Rest in Peace Sir.”
Born Yousuf Kamal in Bhopal, India, his family moved to Pakistan in 1952.
Shakeel soon made his way onto the big screen and starred in the 1966 film Honehar.
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