Veteran actor and India’s first female mimicry artist Aasha Singh Jaiswal dies at 83

Veteran actress and mimicry artist Aasha Singh Jaiswal has died in Mumbai at the age of 83. She passed away on August 22 at around 7.30pm, her son Akkash Bharadwaj confirmed.

Speaking to ANI, Bharadwaj said the family performed her last rites and cremated her at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai on August 23.

Paying tribute to his mother on Instagram, Bharadwaj remembered her deep commitment to her work and life. He described her philosophy as one that encouraged people not to grieve death but to embrace it as a journey towards divine bliss.

Jaiswal was known for her work in Hindi films and television, but also carved a niche as a mimicry performer. She was particularly recognised for recreating the voices of prominent personalities, with her imitation of legendary actress Meena Kumari among her noted performances.

She was regarded as one of the pioneering women in Indian mimicry, making her contribution significant in a field traditionally dominated by men.

Jaiswal also appeared in Hindi cinema, including the 1993 Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Baazigar. According to reports, she featured in BR Chopra’s iconic television series Mahabharat, where she played Kripi, the sister of Kripacharya.

Beyond acting and mimicry, Jaiswal was also an entrepreneur. She founded Aasha Events and Films, which was involved in organising cultural programmes and events. She also remained associated with social welfare and community initiatives.

Her final rites were held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle West, Mumbai.

With inputs from ANI