Jagdeep and I would catch up in-between shots and had some great conversations: Prem Chopra

The news of sudden demise of veteran actor Jagdeep (Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri), has left his fans and friends from the film fraternity, heartbroken. The 81-year-old actor, who breathed his last at his Bandra residence on Wednesday, was reportedly not keeping well, and passed away due to age-related issues. Jagdeep, who started his career as a child artiste, is best known for immortalising the character of Soorma Bhopali in the 1975 film Sholay. The actor has featured in nearly 400 films, including Soorma Bhopali, inspired by his iconic character in Sholay. Actors and filmmakers took to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late actor, who was laid to rest in Mumbai today. Speaking to us, veteran actor Prem Chopra, who worked with Jagdeep on several films, says, he was shocked and heartbroken when he heard the news. “Jagdeep was a versatile actor and essayed all characters with ease. Each of his character was unique and memorable, however, Soorma Bhopali will always remain my favourite and etched on people’s mind,” says Chopra, who is equally impressed with the late actor’s portrayal of Mathura in Sultan Ahmed’s Ganga Ki Saugand. Chopra adds, “He was an actor par excellence and had an outstanding comic timing. We used to catch up a lot in-between shots and had some great conversations. I have always enjoyed his company. The news of his death gave me a real shock. This year has only brought forth misery and sad news, but I hope things look brighter in the coming future. I pray that god blesses his soul and I hope he is at peace where he is now.”