Mumbai

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi fondly remembered her late friend and fellow actor Farooq Sheikh on his birth anniversary, sharing a heartfelt note on social media.

Taking to Instagram, Azmi recalled their college days at St. Xavier’s College, where they co-founded the Hindi Natya Manch. She expressed gratitude for Sheikh’s constant support, remembering how he helped her through exams, cared for her during illness, and remained a steady presence in her life—often with his trademark teasing.

She also reflected on their long artistic journey together, particularly their collaboration with director Feroz Abbas Khan on the iconic play Tumhari Amrita, which they performed globally for over two decades.

The play, a Hindi adaptation of A.R. Gurney’s Love Letters, featured Azmi and Sheikh as Amrita Nigam and Zulfikar Haider, two characters who stay connected through letters, sharing life’s emotions across time.

Actor Jackie Shroff also paid tribute to Sheikh on the occasion with a social media post.

Farooq Sheikh began his film journey with a supporting role in Garam Hawa (1973) alongside Balraj Sahni. Over the years, he featured in several memorable films, including Noorie, Chashme Buddoor, Umrao Jaan and Biwi Ho To Aisi.

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He also gained popularity on television as the host of Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai. In 2010, he received the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film Lahore.