Eminent Pakistani actor Yusuf Kamal, popularly known by his screen name Shakeel, passed away at 85 in Karachi on Thursday, family sources confirmed to Geo News.
The veteran actor, immortalised by his thespian excellence in PTV’s plays like Uncle Urfi and Parchaiyan, succumbed to protracted illness in the metropolis, where he was under treatment in a private hospital.
Shakeel had also undergone a heart bypass surgery some years back.
According to family sources, Shakeel’s son is already in Karachi, while his daughter is on her way from Saudi Arabia.
The veteran actor had undergone a bypass surgery some years ago and suffered from arthritis — a disease of the joints — for the past several years. Shakeel had difficulty walking and was often helped by an employee.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed deep sorrow over the death of senior actor Shakeel, the Sindh CM’s spokesman said.
“Actor Shakeel was a big name in the art world. His services will always be remembered,” the CM said.
He further prayed for the high status of the deceased.
Moreover, Punjab interim chief minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, too, expressed grief and sorrow over the actor’s death.
Paying tribute to the actor, Naqvi expressed his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family.
The light-eyed actor, who rose to fame with Shazuri and An Kahi, ruled television and people’s hearts for a long time.
His smooth, natural performance was important in making these dramas superhits.
Other drama serials immortalized by Shakeel’s amazing acting include Intizar Farmaiye, Zer Zabar Pesh, Afshan, Anna, Uroosa and Angan Terha.