Founder of Ajoka Theatre, Madeeha Gauhar, passes away

LAHORE - Ajoka Theatre's founder, actress, scriptwriter, director of social theatre, and women’s rights activist Madeeha Gauhar passed away at the age of 62. Madeeha was battling cancer for 3 years.

Her funeral prayers will be offered at Sarwar Road at 2pm on Thursday.

Madeeha founded the Ajoka Theatre in 1983, a theatre specifically focusing on social themes. Madeeha also perfomed across Asia and Europe and often collaborated with Indian artists.

Toba Tek Singh, Aik Thi Nani, Bulha, Letters to Uncle Sam, Mera Rang de Basanti Chola, Dara, Kon Hai Yay Ghustakh and Lo Phir Basant Ayee are among Ajoka’s most memorable plays.

She is also the first Pakistani to get the prestigious Prince Claus Award for her leadership of Ajoka for (withstanding) pressures from the political and religious establishment, and [remaining] committed to the cause of theatre for social change."

Madeeha also got nominated for Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.