LAHORE: Ajoka Theatre founder, playwright, actor and director of social theatre Madeeha Gohar passed away in Lahore on Wednesday morning after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Married to director, producer and writer Shahid Nadeem, she was the elder sister of famous actress Faryal Gohar and stepmother of actress, director, and producer Savera Nadeem.
According o Geo News, She had been suffering from cancer for the last three years.
Her funeral prayers would be held on Thursday near her residence in 24 Sarwar Road Cantt.
The actor, director and women’s rights activist 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 has performed in various countries across Asia and Europe and has 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.