Veteran Indian actor Saeed Jaffrey died on Sunday in London. He was 86.
Jaffrey’s niece Shaheen Aggarwal shared the news on Facebook, saying: “Today, a generation of Jaffreys has passed away. Saeed Jaffrey has joined his brothers and sister and is rejoicing in the lap of his Heavenly Father, eternally. The entire Jaffrey Family bids you, ‘adieu’, you beautiful, beautiful man See you in heaven!”
The cause of his death was not revealed.
The award-winning actor is best known for his roles in Gandhi, A Passage To India, Chashme Baddoor and Shatranj Ke Khiladi (The Chess Players) - for which he won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. He has starred alongside the likes of Ben Kingsley, Michael Caine, Sean Connery and Pierce Brosnan.
He also featured in several Hindi movies including Ram Lakhan, Naseeb and Khoon Bhari Maang.
Jaffrey - who was born in Malerkotla, Punjab - was the first Indian to receive the Order of the British Empire or OBE.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi joined those who shared their condolences on Twitter:
Saeed Jaffrey was a multifaceted actor whose flair & versatility will always be remembered. Deepest condolences on his passing away,” he wrote.
Jaffrey's TV credits include a role as Ravi Desai on the popular UK TV series ‘Coronation Street‘, Gangsters, Tandoori Nights, The Far Pavilions and The Jewel In The Crown.
He is survived by his second wife Jennifer Sorrell, whom he married in 1980, and three children from his marriage to Madhur Jaffrey.
Goodbye dear Sayeed. Started my career with u in Masoom. Cant forget ur kindness n enthusiasm for your art n others. https://t.co/NFlWdNIhl0
— Shekhar Kapur (@shekharkapur) November 16, 2015
Saddened at the passing on of Saeed JAFFREY. He was an outstanding actor and a fine gentleman. RIP.
— SUHEL SETH (@suhelseth) November 16, 2015
You had the sweetest of smiles Saeed Jaffrey. God is lucky up there to have you. Spread the smile. RIP.
— Devansh Patel (@PatelDevansh) November 16, 2015
Always wanted an uncle like Saeed Jaffrey, who you could drink whiskey with at house parties and dance with at weddings.
IOL