Veteran Bollywood actor-comedian Jagdeep passes away at 81

The actor famous for his role as Soorma Bhopali in the blockbuster "Sholay" died on Wednesday in Mumbai

Veteran Actor-comedian Jagdeep, best known for his role as Soorma Bhopali in "Sholay", died on Wednesday at his residence in Mumbai. He was 81. The actor, who's real name Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri, was not keeping well.
"He passed away at 8.30pm at his residence in Bandra. He was not keeping well due to age related issues," producer Mehmood Ali, a close family friend, told PTI.
Bollywood fraternity mourned his death on social media. 
"Heard the sad news of Jagdeep Saab's demise. Always enjoyed watching him on screen. He brought so much joy to the audience. My deepest condolences to Jaaved and all members of the family. Prayers for Jagdeep Saab's soul," wrote Ajay Devgn in tribute on Twitter.
 

Heard the sad news of Jagdeep Saab's demise. Always enjoyed watching him on screen. He brought so much joy to the audience. My deepest condolences to Jaaved and all members of the family. Prayers for Jagdeep Saab's soul??
- Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) July 8, 2020

  
Comedian Johnny Lever remembered the first time he ever faced the camera it was with the late Jagdeep.

My first film & the first time I ever faced the camera, was in the film #yehrishtanatoote with the legend himself #Jagdeep bhai. We will miss you...May his soul rest in peace ???? Our prayers & deepest condolences to the family. pic.twitter.com/uhBjYSZdVe
- Johny Lever (@iamjohnylever) July 8, 2020

  
Jagdeep started his career as a child actor at the age of nine. His first film was BR Chopra's Afsana in 1951. The late actor has worked in about 400 films, however, it is his role as Soorma Bhopali in 1975 film Sholay that is etched in audiences' minds even today. 
He also played memorable roles in Purana Mandir and the comedy Andaz Apna Apna in which he played Salman Khan's father.
Jagdeep also directed the movie Soorma Bhopali in which he played the protagonist. The 1988 movie had cameos from Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra and Rekha.