Glowing tributes were paid to iconic theatre personalities Madeeha Gauhar and Asim Bukhari at a memorial event organised by Ajoka at the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) auditorium on Saturday, 25 April.
The event commenced with a video compilation highlighting the life and work of veteran TV and stage actor Asim Bukhari, followed by heartfelt tributes from his family members and close friends.
Actor Naseem Abbas, who had performed alongside Asim Bukhari, presented a soulful rendition of Bulleh Shah’s kafi, written by the great Sufi poet on the passing of his spiritual mentor, adding a deeply emotional dimension to the occasion.
PTV senior producer Mohsin Jaffar spoke about Asim Bukhari’s remarkable contributions to PTV drama, recalling his artistic depth and enduring impact. Ajoka’s General Secretary, Sohail Warraich, reflected on the unwavering commitment and passion both Madeeha Gauhar and Asim Bukhari demonstrated for socially meaningful and transformative theatre.
Actress Eva Majid shared her personal experiences of working with both Madeeha Gauhar and Asim Bukhari in Ajoka productions, highlighting their creative brilliance and mentorship. Madeeha Gauhar’s son, Nirvaan Nadeem, spoke about his experience of working under his mother’s direction, describing her as a visionary artist and inspiring guide. Madeeha’s niece, Neha Gauhar, remembered her as a powerful role model whose influence left a lasting impact on all those around her, particularly women. Her husband and eminent playwright, Shahid Nadeem, said that Ajoka continues to follow the path set by its founder, driven by the inspiration she instilled within the Ajoka family.
Paying tribute to Asim Bukhari, Shahid Nadeem especially highlighted his portrayal of Shah Inayat, the Sufi master of Bulleh Shah, and revealed that during more than a decade of performing this role, Asim Bukhari evolved into a Sufi poet himself, eventually publishing three collections of poetry.
Actor Usman Raaj also paid tribute through the rendition of Sufi kalam, while composer M Aslam presented a violin performance alongside his eight-year-old talented grandson, Hassan Abdullah, as a tribute to the late Madeeha Gauhar. A large number of theatre enthusiasts attended the event, along with family members, friends, and admirers of the two legendary artists, making it a heartfelt celebration of their enduring legacy in Pakistani theatre.