He may not have been the quintessential Hero of Bollywood films, but Farooq Sheikh’s presence on screen enchanted every viewer. The actor had a pleasant persona and a certain panache for the skill that was much revered. From “Garam Hawa” to “Ye Jawani Hai Deewani” he was a director’s actor. On his 71st Birth Anniversary, here are 5 awesome films of Farooq Sheikh that flaunt his talent to the t.
1. Garam Hawa
The 1974 movie with actors like Balraj Sahni which marked Farooq Sheikh’s debut was a master piece of sorts. We don’t mean to exaggerate but it was the country’s official entry to the Academy Award’s Best Foreign Film category. This was a precursor to some very fine roles done by Sheikh.
2. Noorie
One of the only 3 films at the time to be a hit in China, the 1979 movie starred Poonam Dhillon and was helmed by Yash Chopra. It was nominated for several Filmfare awards and everyone took notice of the honest performance of Farooq.
3. Umrao Jaan
Although everyone remembers Rekha for her ethereal performance, Farooq added the necessary intricacies to the character of Nawab sultan. If not for him, the mature portrayal could not have been brought to life on screen.
4. Bazaar
It isn’t just the story of the movie that had the audience pondering over such a serious issue, rather it was the impression that Farooq made. He was able to capture and woo the audience with his acting skills at par with contemporaries.
5. Chashme Buddoor
A movie that started the cult-following of comic movies, one that had all the necessities for a hit. Veterans comic actors, novices at the time, like Saeed Jaffrey, Rakesh Bedi and Ravi Biswani lent a richness to the camaraderie on-screen which stole everyone’s heart.
