'He brought so much joy to audiences': Tributes flood in for veteran Bollywood star Jagdeep

Abhishek Bachchan, Esha Gupta and Anil Kapoor have thanked the comedy star, who has died aged 81, for 'filling their lives with smiles'

Bollywood comedy actor Jagdeep has died in Mumbai, India, aged 81. AFP

Beloved Bollywood comedy actor Jagdeep died at home in Mumbai, India, on Wednesday, aged 81.

The news was confirmed to Press Trust of India (PTI) by his friend,  producer Mehmood Ali, who said: "He passed away at 8.30pm at his residence in Bandra. He was not keeping well due to age-related issues."

Jagdeep, who was born Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri, started out as a child actor in the 1950s, in BR Chopra's Afsana. By 1957 he had made his mark on the Indian film industry with his role of Billu in Bhabhi.

In total, he starred in more than 400 films, including Sholay (1975), Purana Mandir (1984) and Andaz Apna Apna (1994); he also turned his hand to directing 1998's Soorma Bhopali, in which he played the title role.

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh talks to Jagdeep (C) after he received the Lifetime Achievement award during the 20th International Indian Film Academy Awards in Mumbai in September 2019. AFP

Jagdeep's death mourned by Bollywood stars on Twitter

Shivaay star Ajay Devgn wrote: "Heard the sad news of Jagdeep Saab's demise. Always enjoyed watching him on screen. He brought so much joy to the audience. My deepest condolences to Jaaved and all members of the family. Prayers for Jagdeep Saab's soul."

Abhishek Bachchan wrote: "May you rest in peace Jagdeep sahab. Thank you for filling our lives with smiles."

Anil Kapoor paid tribute to Jagdeep, saying: "Jagdeep Saab was one of the greatest actors of India ... He was always extremely supportive and encouraging ... sending my heartfelt condolences and prayers to my friend Javed & family."

Director Mahesh Bhatt gave a touching tribute, writing: "He was a rainbow in our sky! Filled our life with laughter. An outstanding actor. Goodbye, sir!"

Actor and equestrian sportsman Randeep Hooda concisely wrote: "Thank you for all the entertainment."

Indian politician Rukshmani Kumari wrote: "May his soul rest in peace! One of my favourite actors and the best comedian in the history of Indian cinema!"

Many, including Manoj Bajpai, reflected on their warm memories watching Jagdeep on screen. Bajpai wrote: "Thank you for all the memories that I have watching your films and performances in my childhood! You will be missed by us all."

Dhoom star John Abraham wrote: "Always made us smile. Rest in peace."

Actress Esha Gupta said: "You’ve taught us what comedy is, and we still look up to you. We knew the the moment you’ll appear on screen that it’ll be a laugh riot, but you always left your audience with a lot of emotions ... [there's] no one like you".

Comic Johny Lever reflected on working with Jagdeep: "My first film and the first time I ever faced the camera, was in the film [Yeh Rishta Na Tootay (1981)] with the legend himself #Jagdeep bhai. We will miss you."

Divya Dutta wrote: "He was a legend, with impeccable comic timing, he'll be always remembered for the laughs he gave his audience."

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