16/03/2026
Today, we bid farewell to a true pioneer of the arts, Navnindra Behl. From her first steps on stage at the age of three to her commanding presence on our screens, her journey was nothing short of legendary.
As the former Head of the Department of Theatre and Television at Punjabi University, Patiala, she mentored generations of artists, shaping the future of Indian performance.
Whether it was the resilient mother in Maachis, the beloved grandmother in Ishqbaaaz, or her sharp performance in Queen, she brought depth and a "one-of-a-kind voice" to every character.Alongside her husband Lalit Behl, she co-created the memorable Doordarshan series Afsane, leaving an indelible mark on Indian television.
Her filmmaker son, Kanu Behl, remembered her today as his "Titan, faith, and guide". The curtains may have closed, but her "irrepressible smile" and "burning curious eyes" will continue to inspire us through her timeless work.
Rest in peace,
Ma'am. Your contribution to Punjabi culture and Indian cinema is immeasurable.
For those of you who do not know, Lalit and Navnindra Behl were prominent figures in Punjab theatre, with Lalit initiating his career by forming a theatre group in nearby Kapurthala. As a gold medalist in Indian Theatre from Panjab University, Lalit Behl directed numerous stage plays, contributing heavily to the regional theatre scene, which often extended into Jalandhar.