A former Dragons' Den star has sadly passed away at the age of 55 years old. Businessman Shaf Rasul is thought to have passed away at home after suddenly falling ill. He made his debut on the BBC series Dragons' Den: Online after it launched in 2009. On Thursday (February 26), his family shared a heartbreaking tribute online, which read: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shafqat Rasul.
"A devoted father to Sohaib and Sarah Rasul, a loving husband to Nabila Rasul, a cherished son of the late Haji Ghulam Rasul and Parveen Akhtar, and a dear brother to Zahid, Shahid, Ashfaq, Mi Abid and Juwariah. We humbly request your duas for the deceased and strength and patience for the family during this difficult time."
Shaf starred in Dragons' Den: Online, a special online version of the show which followed the same format as the BBC entrepreneur programme. It was presented by Dominic Byrne and featured Shaf Rasul and Julie Meyer as the Dragons. The weekly episodes featuring the businessman aired from September 16, 2009 to October 7, 2009.
He first began his business career in the early 1990s and soon blossomed into a self-made multi-millionaire after he established E-Net Computers. A year before he stepped into the Den, Shaf became one of the top 20 in the UK Asian Rich List.
Among those paying tribute to the late entrepreneur was Chris Gilmour. The co-founder of PR agency Tigerbond, he told the Sun: "Shaf was a client for nearly 25 years and didn't chance a bit. He was always fill of the same boundless enthusiasm for life and business...
"There are so many people out there whose lives were touched by his kindness, and he was always happy to dispense advice to budding entrepreneurs. I still remember one of the first times I met him and he welcomed a colleague and me into his office - and introduced us to a tank of prianhas!"
Meanwhile, on social media, viewers were sharing their sympathies and fond memories. A former classmate wrote: "I'm shocked to hear this. I was at school with Shaf, such a smart, funny guy." Another online user said: "Our friend Shaf has moved on to what I hope is a better place. I shall never forget your infectious and beautiful approach to life.
"Your positivity, your embrace, your massive smile and your warm handshake. You always asked 'of other people' - never concerned about yourself. Now we are thinking of you and your astonishing achievements. Most of all, we are thinking of how you made us all feel - and that will be what I will always remember."
