KARACHI: Eminent Pakistani actor Yusuf Kamal, popularly known by his screen name Shakeel, passed away at 85 in Karachi on Thursday, family sources confirmed to Geo News.  

The veteran actor, immortalised by his thespian excellence in PTV's plays like Uncle Urfi and Parchaiyan, succumbed to protracted illness in the metropolis, where he was under treatment in a private hospital.

Shakeel had also undergone a heart bypass surgery some years back.

According to family sources, Shakeel's son is already in Karachi, while his daughter is on her way from Saudi Arabia.

The veteran actor had undergone a bypass surgery some years ago and suffered from arthritis — a disease of the joints — for the past several years. Shakeel had difficulty walking and was often helped by an employee.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed deep sorrow over the death of senior actor Shakeel, the Sindh CM's spokesman said.

"Actor Shakeel was a big name in the art world. His services will always be remembered," the CM said.

He further prayed for the high status of the deceased.

Moreover, Punjab interim chief minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, too, expressed grief and sorrow over the actor's death.

Paying tribute to the actor, Naqvi expressed his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family.

The light-eyed actor, who rose to fame with Shazuri and An Kahi, ruled television and people's hearts for a long time.

His smooth, natural performance was important in making these dramas superhits.

Other drama serials immortalized by Shakeel's amazing acting include Intizar Farmaiye, Zer Zabar Pesh, Afshan, Anna, Uroosa and Angan Terha.

A-list actor Faisal Qureshi took to Twitter to share his sorrow at the news of Shakeel's passing.

"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 [has] left us today," he tweeted.

Moreover, veteran actor Bushra Ansari too lamented the loss of the great star. Taking to Instagram, Ansari wrote: "You were a true hero..My dearest friend..Shakeel just passed away..Dil per jese kisi ne paon rakh diya ho [It seems like someone has crushed my heart]..Arry Mehmood Ahmed! [Oh! Mehboob Ahmed!] Kaisee Eid hai ye [What kind of Eid is this?] ..RIP.."

Aijaz Aslam shared his condolences on Facebook and wrote: "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."