Lucknow, Oct 2026 : The contributions of Farooque Jaffer and Mehru Jaffer to acting and journalism remain unforgettable. Farooque Jaffer carved a distinct identity for herself in Hindi cinema through her powerful performances, while Mehru Jaffer used her forthright writing and journalism to highlight women's issues and broader social concerns.
On Friday, Sanchit Smriti Nyas, in collaboration with the Lok Sanskriti Shodh Sansthan, organised a programme titled Yaadein Farooque Aur Mehru Ki (Memories of Farooque and Mehru) at Little Friends School in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. The event celebrated the lives, struggles and contributions of the two personalities.
Dr Diksha Nagar introduced the theme of the programme. Parveen Talha shared anecdotes from Mehru Jaffer's writing journey and journalistic career. Noted writer and retired All India Radio official Salma Hussain, who travelled from Delhi, recalled memories associated with Lucknow, Delhi and Pune. She observed that people may move from one place to another, but their memories remain etched in the hearts of those they leave behind.
Tahira Hasan said Mehru Jaffer expressed her views on women's issues with conviction and clarity. Speakers remembered her as one of Lucknow's pioneering women journalists and highlighted her contribution to journalism and the advancement of women's concerns.
Shaheen Ahmed shared personal memories of her mother and sister, offering glimpses into their lives beyond their public achievements.
The programme also recalled Farooque Jaffer's life, struggles and journey in acting. Speakers noted that she was married at the age of 14 and that her husband was a freedom fighter. She worked as an official at All India Radio before later living in a village and serving as its village head.
Shakha Bandyopadhyay spoke about Farooque Jaffer's memorable performances in films such as Gaman, Umrao Jaan, Peepli Live and Gulabo Sitabo. Her work earned her recognition from audiences and critics, and she also received a Filmfare Award.
Speakers observed that her career demonstrated how age need not be a barrier to talent, creativity or artistic achievement.
Lalit Singh Pokharia, Pradeep Kapoor and Ashreen Zafar shared their memories through video messages.
The programme was attended by Dr Richa Nagar, Pratul Joshi, theatre personality Tarun Kumar, Dr Sudha Dwivedi, secretary of the Lok Sanskriti Shodh Sansthan, Abha Shukla, Dr S.K. Gopal, Ajit Pal, Ambrish and several other guests.
The gathering paid tribute to two women whose work left a lasting mark on their respective fields, celebrating their professional achievements, personal journeys and enduring influence on those who knew them and their work.
