The entertainment industry is reeling from the loss of one of its most revered icons, Yousuf Kamal, known by his stage name Shakeel Yousuf. The veteran actor, who carved a distinct path in the industry, passed away at 85 after battling arthritis and heart complications.
Veteran actors and close friends of Shakeel, Rubina Ashraf and Bushra Ansari broke the news on social media on Thursday -- the first day of Eid in Pakistan. A wave of sorrow then engulfed the hearts of celebrities, who took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the late actor's unparalleled contributions.
Bushra took to her Instagram with pictures from her last meeting with Shakeel and a snapshot of them on the sets of Aangan Terha.
“You were a true hero, my dearest friend. Shakil just passed away. It feels like someone has stepped on my heart. Arey Mehboob Ahmad, what is this Eid without you? Rest in peace,” she wrote.
Rubina, too, expressed her sorrow. “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, left us today. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah,” she wrote on Facebook.
Simi Raheal, who had the privilege of working with Shakeel, fondly remembered him. "It was an honour, a pleasure to have known him, worked with him, and travelled with him. He was a rare one, his sophistication, his manners, his old-world charm, his Bhopal influence. He was a truly fine human. His talent was immense and body of work unmatched. We shall remember you,Shakeel," she wrote and prayed for his soul.
Adnan Siddiqui shed light on the impact of Shakeel's acting and legacy. "With his impeccable acting skills and versatility, Shakeel (Yousuf Kamal) sahib left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with. He captivated audiences with powerful performances over decades. His presence and respected stature in the industry will be deeply missed, he tweeted.
With his impeccable acting skills and versatility, Shakeel (Yousuf Kamal) sahib left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with. He captivated audiences with powerful performances over decades. His presence and respected stature in the industry will be deeply missed.🫶🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/ko1QBIg3Xn
— Adnan Siddiqui (@adnanactor) June 29, 2023
Indian singer Adnan Sami also joined in mourning Shakeel's loss, reminiscing about their interactions and shared interests. He tweeted, "Extremely saddened by the news of the legendary Shakeel Bhai's passing. He was not only a master of his craft as a brilliant versatile actor, but he was a very beautiful soul with an infectious spirit and smile. We will all miss him."
Aijaz Aslam remarked that the Ankahi actor's work will forever be cherished within the industry. "Deeply saddened by the loss of a true icon, veteran actor Sir Yousuf Shakil. 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 Shakil Sir," he stated.
Mishi Khan shared a video on social media speaking about how devastated and shocked she is by the news., "What a devastating news that dear Shakeel Uncle (Legendary Actor Sir Shakeel) passed away today. What a huge loss. Have great memories with him. What a smashing person he was. One in a million personality."
What a devastating news that pyaray Shakeel Uncle (Legendry Actor Sir Shakeel ) passed away today. What a huge loss. Have great memories with him. What a smashing person he was. One in a million personality pic.twitter.com/mtQiCiBa79
— Mishi khan (@mishilicious) June 29, 2023
Saba Qamar also offered her condolences to Shakeel's family. "I am deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Yousuf Kamal (Shakeel Sahab). His contribution to the industry will always be remembered. Rest in peace, Sir," she wrote.
Shuja Haider highlighted Shakeel's immense impact on Pakistani cinema and the inspiration he provided for future generations. "We belong to Allah, and it is to Him that we shall return. Shakeel Sahab was undoubtedly one of Pakistan's finest actors, and his incredible work will never be forgotten by the nation. He was an era and an inspiration, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations. May his soul rest in peace."
We belong to Allah, and it is to Him that we shall return. Shakeel Sahab was undoubtedly one of Pakistan's finest actors, and his incredible work will never be forgotten by the nation. He was an era and an inspiration, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations. May his… pic.twitter.com/lftDAxjVrh
— Shuja Haider (@theshujahaider) June 29, 2023
Atiqa Odho, who knew the Parchaiyaan actor personally, acknowledged his significant contributions to the industry and the love he received from fans and the entertainment community. "A legend has left us. Please pray for Shakeel Sahab. He served his country well as an artist and was loved by his fans and the entertainment community. His passing is a great loss for us all."
Mahira Khan posted a picture with the legendary actor on the micro-blogging site.
إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّ إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون
— Mahira Khan (@TheMahiraKhan) June 29, 2023
The great, the legend.. Shakeel Sb
💔 pic.twitter.com/twFzqqmgvr
Photographer Mobeen Ansari, who had the opportunity to work closely with Shakeel, shared a heartfelt anecdote, saying, "I am truly saddened to hear the news of Shakeel sahib's passing away. He was not only a truly iconic actor who reigned for decades, but he had a heart of gold...He truly left an impact on so many lives, and he will be sorely missed."
As the news of Shakeel's passing spread, fans and colleagues from all corners of the entertainment industry united in their grief, sharing their personal stories and memories of the legendary actor. His funeral was held at Sultan Masjid in Khayaban-e-Bharia, DHA, Karachi on Friday.
As the curtain falls on Shakeel's remarkable journey, the Pakistani entertainment industry stands united in mourning the loss of a true icon. His exceptional talent, versatile performances, and genuine warmth touched the hearts of countless people, leaving an enduring legacy. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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