Asha Zaroo, the renowned theatre and radio artist of Kashmir, bid her final adieu. Succumbing to a brief illness, the legendary artist left an irreplaceable void in the realm of performing arts.
Her cremation took place in Jammu on Wednesday afternoon.
Asha Zaroo’s legacy is characterized by an unwavering commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir.
Shattering societal norms during an era when female involvement in cultural programs was uncommon, she paved the way for others with her extraordinary talent.
From her early years, she immersed herself in acting, gracing Doordarshan serials, radio broadcasts, and theatrical performances.
Her portrayal of Maa in a TV serial, later staged at Abhinav Theatre, earned her a lasting place in the history of Jammu and Kashmir’s artistic accomplishments.
Spanning over five decades, Asha Zaroo’s illustrious career included her involvement with the Young Man’s Cultural Association and service in the Song and Dramatic Division of the Government of India. Recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of art and culture, she received accolades from various organizations.
In the domain of radio, Asha Zaroo became a familiar voice through her regular participation in the daily feature Wangej Wour on Radio Sharda, portraying the character of Asha, the sister of Pappa Ji.
Her influence extended beyond her performances, leaving a lasting impact and serving as an inspiration to generations of artists in the region.
Mohammad Amin Bhat, the head of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, reflected on her versatile career, stating, “She was primarily a theatre actress but made significant contributions to radio. In comparison, her visual medium contributions were comparatively less. However, what sets her apart is that she demonstrated her talent at a young age and continued contributing until the end of her life.”