Ashes of Theatre Icon Kailash Kaur immersed at Hussainiwala, tribute by family and art community
Harish Monga
Ferozepur, October 12, 2024: On Saturday, the revered ashes of Kailash Kaur, a towering figure in Punjabi theatre and a trailblazing actress at the Amritsar Theatre Arts Center, were solemnly immersed in the Sutlej River at Hussainiwala. Her family, joined by prominent voices from art, literature, and activism, paid tribute to her legacy amidst the stirring echoes of slogans and heartfelt reverence. Celebrated for breaking new ground for women in Punjabi theatre, Kaur’s final rites not only honored her memory but also underscored her indelible impact on the world of cultural expression and societal transformation.
The procession to Hussainiwala was attended by her family members from Chandigarh and across Punjab, who paid their respects at the Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev National Martyrs’ Memorial.
Earlier, members of the organisation Kalapeeth (Regd.), Ferozepur, welcomed attendees at Gurdwara Saragarhi, where Kailash Kaur's ashes were received. These supporters, who came from various parts of Punjab, gathered to celebrate the legacy of a woman who had kept the spirit of activism alive on stage.
Renowned playwright Kawal Dhaliwal addressed the assembly, acknowledging that Kaur’s absence has left a void in the theatrical community. He emphasised the importance of continuing her work with dedication.
Dr Areet, Kailash Kaur’s daughter and a committed theatre artist herself, expressed that her mother had been a beacon of strength, representing the marginalized and voicing the struggles of the people. She stated that Kaur’s contribution to theatre was not only about performance but was a passionate stance against societal injustices, much like a voice for democracy alongside her comrade Gursharan Bhaaji.
Noted poet Gurtej Koharwala paid homage with heartfelt words, highlighting how Kaur’s name will shine eternally as a light for art and activism.
Family representative Amolak Singh extended gratitude to the art, literature, and public welfare organizations for their participation. He remarked on Kaur’s unparalleled role in cultivating and sustaining the artistic movements of Punjab, describing her as a traveller who quenched the cultural thirst of a barren land with her dedication to theatre.
After the gathering, Kailash Kaur's ashes were immersed in the Sutlej River at the Hussainiwala border, accompanied by the booming chants of supporters. Among those present were Dr Navsharan, Dr Atul, Priya Leen, Neelakshi, Romila Singh, Sardara Singh Cheema, Anita Shabdish, Subhash Bittu Mansa, Harmit Vidyarthi, Jora Singh Nasrali, Harinder Bindu, Jasbir Natt, Pavel Kussa, Kuldeep Kaur Kussa, Sukhdev Singh Kokri Kalan, Shingara Singh Mann, Sumit Amritsar, and several other notable personalities from the artistic and literary circles.