Madeeha Gohar Passes Away

Madeeha Gohar, veteran drama artist and human right activist died after a protracted illness here on Wednesday.

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Apr, 2018 ) :Madeeha Gohar, veteran drama artist and human right activist died after a protracted illness here on Wednesday. She was 62. She was suffering from cancer for the last three years.

She was the wife of playwright and former ptv general manager, Shahid Mahmood Nadeem. Her funeral prayers will be held on Thursday evening. Ajoka Theatre founder, playwright, actor and director of social theatre Madeeha Gohar had devoted herself to promote progressive thoughts through non-commercial stage dramas.

Madeeha founded Ajoka Theatre in 1984 as part of her commitment to theatre for social change. Ajoka's plays have been based on social issues and human rights such as female literacy and honour killings.

Ajoka had performed in various countries across Asia and Europe and had also staged productions in backyards and open spaces in poor localities to raise awareness.

In 2006, Madeeha became the first Pakistani to be honoured with the prestigious 'Prince Claus Award' for her leadership of Ajoka.

The award was given to her by Ambassador of Netherlands Willem Andreae. Madeeha was married to veteran writer and director Shahid Nadeem and was the elder sister of renowened actress Faryal Gohar.

Her daughter, Swera Nadeem, is also an actress, director, and producer. Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences with Gohar's family. "Madeeha Gohar was a talented performer," Shehbaz said. "Her services to tv and theatre will be remembered forever," he added.