Jagdeep dies at 81: A pictorial tribute to ‘Soorma Bhopali’

Remembered by many as "Soorma Bhopali" of Sholay, actor Jagdeep passed away on Wednesday. The 81-year-old actor had to his credit over 400 films. He entertained the audience with his spot-on comic timing and later even tried his hands at directing movies. His demise has left the entire Hindi film industry saddened, and many remember the late actor as someone "who brought so much joy to the audience." Here's looking back at the life and career of Jagdeep. (Express Archive Photo)

The real name of actor Jagdeep was Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri. He started his Bollywood career as a child artiste in BR Chopra’s film Afsana, and from here on, there was no stopping the actor. The first film where the audience got a glimpse of the comedian in him was the 1968 film Brahmachari, starring Shammi Kapoor and Mumtaz in the lead roles. (Express Archive Photo)

In an interview, Jagdeep had shared how his character Soorma Bhopali came into being. It happened when the actor told screenplay writers Salim-Javed about a forest officer from Bhopal called Soorma. He even discussed the peculiarities of this person that were also incorporated in the blockbuster hit Sholay. (Express Archive Photo)

Apart from making the audience laugh, Jagdeep also starred in Ramsay Brothers' horror films like Purana Mandir and Saamri. (Express Archive Photo)

Later in his career, Jagdeep turned to direction and made the film Soorma Bhopali in 1988, which was a spin on his character from Sholay. He played the central character here. Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Rekha made cameo appearances in Soorma Bhopali. Here the actor is seen in a still from the movie. (Express Archive Photo)

Jagdeep played the lead roles in five films. In this photo, he is seen with Kamal Haasan and Viju Khote. (Express Archive Photo)

In this photo, Jagdeep is seen with Mehmood and Mukri in the film Naya Bakra. (Express Archive Photo)

A still from the movie Meena Kumari Ki Amar Kahani, featuring Jagdeep and Keshto Mukherjee. (Express Archive Photo)

Jagdeep is survived by sons Jaaved Jaaferi and Naved Jafri. (Express Archive Photo)