Madeeha Gauhar’s alma mater re-enacts 'Kala Meda Bhes'

Memorial service was attended by Justice Nasira Javed Iqbal, Naeem Tahir, Shaista Sirajud Din, Shahid Mehmood Nadeem

LAHORE: Last night, the Government College University (GCU) in Lahore hosted a memorial service for late Madeeha Gauhar at its Sir Fazal-i-Hussain auditorium. The departed, who was a former student of the institute and also the founder of Ajoka Theatre has inspired many through her hard work and determination.

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The event commenced with a documentary that highlighted Gauhar's life and achievements. It also featured her four-decade-long struggle to revive socially relevant and meaningful theatre in Pakistan. Vice Chancellor of GCU Dr Hasan Amir Shah then announced that the dramatic society of the university will be awarding outstanding theatre actors and directors with a medal named on the late artist every year.

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Various names from all walks of life also honoured Gauhar and paid tribute to her artistic services and commitment towards the welfare of society. These included the likes of Justice (R) Nasira Javed Iqbal, Naeem Tahir, Shaista Sirajud Din and Gauhar's husband and Ajoka's executive director Shahid Mehmood Nadeem.

Din shared her memories of Gauhar and said that she was very brave and courageous. "Madeeha was a role model for the upcoming generation of artists. Her group - Ajoka - represented Pakistan and its rich cultural facets of theatre with utmost pride at numerous international platforms," added the professor.

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Veteran actor Tahir also spoke about Gauhar's creative personality. He said that she beautifully blended cultural objects, folk music and social values and beliefs in her plays. "Her unique style impressed theatre members and enthusiasts," he continued.

The Khuda Ke Liye star also mentioned that her partnership with Nadeem as a director and writer proved to be great as they are regarded as geniuses in Pakistani theatre.

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On the other hand, Iqbal highlighted Gauhar’s outstanding contribution to the cause of human rights and working towards empowering women of South Asia through her plays. She stated, "In a short amount of time, Pakistan has lost two of its gems - the wonderful ladies, Asma Jahangir and Madeeha Gauhar."

The late founder's husband, Nadeem thanked the organisers for holding the service in her honour. He added, "Ajoka will continue to work towards Madeeha Gauhar's mission to spread awareness through theatre. We will do so with the same zeal and passion."

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The widower also informed that the team at Ajoka will be holding more events in the future to pay tribute to Gauhar as her work was an asset for theatre lovers.

After the speeches, a landmark Seraiki play Kala Meda Bhes was performed in the historic Bukhari Auditorium. Attendees of the service, which included the faculty members and a large number of students lauded the impressive storyline and performance of the talented actors.

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Kala Meda Bhes, which was initially directed by Gauhar herself revived the most ancient form of theatre in Punjab called swanng. It was based on a real life incident that took place in Sindh a few years ago where a woman was exchanged for an ox. It's set in a small village of the Cholistan desert where drinking water is scarce and a powerful, exploitative pir controls the only well.

Ajoka theatre hosts memorial for Madeeha Gauhar

Written by Nadeem, Kala Meda Bhes is not just a tale of misery but also a tribute to the determination of the common people. It also celebrates the rich and dynamic culture of South Punjab.

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