On Wednesday night, veteran actor Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri, popularly known by his stage name Jagdeep, breathed his last after reportedly suffering from a prolonged illness. Jaydeep rose to fame with his brilliant comic timing and was a part of several entertaining films like Soorma Bhopali, Andaz Apna Apna and Aaina among several others. He had also worked with a streak of superstars. Recently, his Sholay co-star Amitabh Bachchan took to his blog and penned a heartwarming tribute to the late actor by cherishing his joyous and humble personality.
Big B's blog read, "Last night we lost another gem .. Jagdeep .. the actor of exceptional comedic repertoire, passed away ..He had crafted a unique individual style of his own .. and I had the honour of working with him in several films .. the more prominent ones in the eyes of the audience being Sholay and Shahenshah .. He had even requested me to do a small guest role in a film he was producing, which I did ..A humble human .. loved by millions. My duas and my prayers. Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri .. his real name , adopted Jagdeep as his film name and gave the film fraternity such memorable performances, that brought so much joy and happiness all around."
Amitabh also hailed Jagdeep for being a prime example of someone showcasing unity in diversity. He added, "Adopting Jagdeep as his film name was such a gracious factor that exhibited the unity in diversity of the Country .. there were many others at the time that did similar .. the eminent and distinguished .. Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, Meena Kumari , Jayant - Amjad Khan’s Father, a giant of a actor .. and many many others."
A devastated Amitabh Bachchan concluded his note by writing, "One by one they all go away .. leaving the Industry bereft and deprived of their immense contribution."
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