The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Today, the 8^th of February, 2021, marks the 90th birthday of the “Idol of the Masses”, Fatma Shaker, AKA Shadia. Shadia captivated audiences around the globe with her remarkable talent in acting and singing, with over 100 films and songs in her repertoire, along with iconic theatre plays and live performances.

Google Doodle is celebrating the iconic actress with a beautiful design that features a black and white illustration of Shadia, which pays tribute to the colour gradient of the films during the 1940s when her career commenced. Her silky voice and playful acting will always be considered symbols for the golden era of Egyptian history. Not only was Shadia a brilliant artist, but she also passed down the torch to her loved ones and close relatives.

“Shadia was the centre of our family,” shared her niece, Nahed Shaker. “She taught me how to love life with her lighthearted conversations and unique sense of humour that I’ll never forget.” Shadia would constantly encourage her family members to pursue success with undying passion. “She is the reason why I chose to go into art,” added Shaker.

Pictured: Shadia’s niece, Nahed Shaker, Shadia, and Shadia’s brother, Mostafa Shaker

Although her departing the world on the 28^th of November, 2017, broke the hearts of millions of her fans across the nation, Shadia’s timeless work lives on through her films that are continuously replayed on TV screens, her unforgettable songs, and her numerous donations to charity.

The nickname “Maabodet Al Gamaheer” (Idol of the Masses) was coined after starring alongside Abdelhalim Hafez in the film of the same name, which remains a staple in Egyptian cinema. Other notable films include her lead roles in Al Zooga Al Talatashar (Wife Number 13), Meraty Modeer ‘Am (My Wife, the General Manager), and Nos Sa’a Gawaz (Half Hour Marriage). Her song “Ya Habibty Ya Masr” (Egypt, My Beloved) was the anthem of the 2011 revolution.

We miss her, and we’ll never forget her. May her soul rest in peace.