From 'Ankahi' to 'Aangan Terha': Four best performances of late actor Shakeel

Actor's loss has sent reverberations across the entertainment industry

Veteran actor Shakeel, with a career spanning over five decades and an influence to match, passed away on Thursday at 85. The actor was admitted to the hospital four days ago, with arthritis and heart complications. Known for his impeccable acting in popular PTV dramas like Ankahi and Aangan Terha, Shakeel’s loss has sent reverberations across the entertainment industry.

In addition to his television endeavours, the renowned actor has made significant contributions to Pakistani cinema. His versatility transcends mediums, as he has appeared in numerous local films, mesmerising audiences with his diverse range of performances. Furthermore, his international breakthrough came in the form of the biographical English film Jinnah (1998), where he portrayed the role of Pakistan's first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan, alongside the legendary Christopher Lee. His character in the film garnered immense acclaim and showcased his ability to shine on a global platform.

Here are four of his best performances on the screen to honour his legacy and remember his work.

Aangan Terha (1984)

Aangan Terha is considered one of Shakeel's most remarkable performances, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition. The drama, written by Anwar Maqsood and directed by Qaiser Farooq, is based on multiple issues of the society and indirect criticism of the Martial Law and the military regime in Pakistan and the electoral system. Shakeel played the role of Mehmood Ahmed, a retired government servant with a delightful sense of humour. His impeccable comedic timing and ability to bring out the essence of his character made Mehmood a beloved figure in Pakistani households.

Uncle Urfi (1972)

Uncle Urfi was a groundbreaking drama that became an instant hit and marked Shakeel's entry into the world of television. He played the lead role of Uncle Urfi, a jovial and compassionate character who became a source of inspiration for those around him. Shakeel's effortless portrayal of Uncle Urfi's endearing personality and his ability to connect with the audience made the drama a resounding success. His performance resonated with viewers, and the character remains etched in the memories of Pakistani TV viewers to this day.

Ankahi (1982)

Even decades later, a family drama that is a fan favourite is the classic Ankahi. Shakeel played the role of Taimur, a deaf and mute man who communicates through sign language. His expressions and gestures conveyed various emotions despite the absence of spoken words. Ankahi remains one of Shakeel's most memorable performances to date.

Parchaiyan (1993)

Parchaiyan, directed by Nusrat Thakur and written by Haseena Moin, revolves around the complexities of relationships within a family and explores various social issues. Shakeel's portrayal in Parchaiyan showcased his acting prowess and garnered appreciation from viewers.

Shakeel's on-screen works are a testament to his remarkable talent and ability to breathe life into diverse characters. Whether it was his comedic timing, powerful emotional performances, or ability to connect with audiences, Shakeel's contributions to Pakistani television have been invaluable. His legacy as a celebrated actor will continue to inspire generations to come.