ASIA SCENE: Tribute to a woman of substance

Sitting as a member of the jury to select women who deserve a standing ovation for the selfless service of the community in various areas of social protection, education, culture or philanthropy, has been an enlightening experience and, for some reason, nostalgic for this writer

Women's Achievers Awards, an initiative of the Kenbharti Center, is expected to take place at the Oshwal Center Auditorium in mid-August while the group celebrates MAA TUJHE SALAAM (Mother Greetings) on the occasion of the Indian Independence Day. More information on prizes and winners will come later, but for the nostalgic moment of Kenya's theatrical theater and musical fraternity of the past, let me pay tribute to an adorable member and respected brotherhood at the time. She is no other than Anjali Pritam.

Originally from Tanzania, Anjali was married to a prominent Kenyan businessman, Pritam, the son of Hon A Pritam – a member of the Legislative Council of Kenya prior to independence

. radiating and bubbling with life, she became a member of Arya Stree Sabha, involving herself in social, religious and charitable activities. Later, as a member of City Arts Society, Anjali discovered her artistic mantle and began singing on private musical mehfils and musicals regularly presented by the company

respectfully known as Bhabi. in Arya Samaj's community halls in short pieces directed by Ram Sharda and later in Kenya National Theater Nairobi

Soon, she became an indispensable member of the local Asian theater not only because she lived in perfection all the characters she was performing on stage but all the more so that she was a charming, understanding and fantastic person with whom to work in any presentation.

Anjali certainly gave new dimensions to the character roles she played. The talkative village of Kanak the Balli, Devi's dominant wife in Ashiana, the blind in Roti aur Beti and the extroverted jovial wife to Juttian Da Jordha were pearls of performance.

She also participated in comedy sketches that formed part of musical variety shows. His sense of timing and facial expressions during the acts was delighted by the public and critics.

Bhabi's participation is not limited to a particular theater group. To express her creative abilities, she successfully participated in pieces presented by Orient Art Circle, Afro Orient Players, Natak and Rangmanch.

Anjali served with distinction the cause of Asian theater and music in Kenya. She was always looking for creative challenges. The Creator Master in heaven had to have a great show in mind that it be part of her as she said yes to the call and left at a relatively young age, leaving her husband, her daughters , grandchildren, theater and music fans in tears

May God rest his soul.