Sara Ishanturaeva

Sara Ishanturaeva

Soviet theatre actress, laureate of the second degree Stalin Prize.
Date of Birth: 08.11.1911
Country: Uzbekistan

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Uzbek Dramatic Art
  3. Notable Performances
  4. - Adellma in "Princess Turandot" (1927)
  5. Film and Political Involvement
  6. Political Activism
  7. Later Life and Legacy
  8. Awards and Honors
  9. - People's Artist of the Uzbek SSR (1937)

Early Life and Education

Sara Ishturganova, born on October 26 (November 8), 1911, in Beshbulak, Uzbekistan, had a challenging childhood. Her father passed away prematurely, and her mother placed her and her siblings in separate foster homes. At age 11, she joined the Zebunniso Boarding School for Girls in Tashkent, where she began her artistic journey.

Uzbek Dramatic Art

Joining the Uzbek Theater

In 1927, Ishturganova graduated from the Uzbek State Drama Studio in Moscow, where she studied under renowned theater practitioners. She became a pivotal member of the newly established Uzbek Drama Theater named after Hamza. As an actress, her talent shone through as she portrayed a wide range of characters with depth and realism.

Notable Performances

Over the years, Ishturganova graced the stage in numerous productions. Some of her most notable roles included:

- Adellma in "Princess Turandot" (1927)

- Beatrice in "Servant of Two Masters" (1927)
- Ophelia in "Hamlet" (1935)
- Love Yarovo in "Love Yarovo" (1937)
- Katerina in "The Storm" (1938)
- Desdamo in "Othello" (1941)
- Guli in "Alisher Navoi" (1945)
Leadership and Recognition

Ishturganova's talents extended beyond the stage. From 1943-1946 and 1953-1960, she served as the director of the Uzbek Theater. In 1942, she became a member of the Communist Party and later became a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic.

Film and Political Involvement

Film Appearances

While primarily a theater actress, Ishturganova also had several film appearances. Her performances on the big screen further showcased her versatility as an artist.

Political Activism

Ishturganova was deeply involved in politics. She served as the chairperson of the Uzbekistan Theater Society from 1946-1955 and 1981-1985. She was also a member of the Soviet Committee for the Protection of Peace and the chairperson of the Republican Peace Fund.

Later Life and Legacy

Retirement

In her later years, Ishturganova retired from active performing but remained an active member of the theater community. She passed away on September 8 (or 7, according to some sources), 1998, in Tashkent.

Awards and Honors

Numerous Recognitions

Throughout her illustrious career, Ishturganova received numerous awards and honors, including:

- People's Artist of the Uzbek SSR (1937)

- People's Artist of the USSR (1951)
- Stalin Prize of the Second Degree (1949)
- State Prize of the USSR (1977)
- State Prize of the Uzbek SSR (1967)
- Order of Lenin (twice)
- Order of the October Revolution
- Order of Friendship of Peoples
- Order "Soglom Avlod Uchun" (Uzbekistan)
- Order "For Outstanding Services" (Uzbekistan, posthumously)

Sara Ishturganova's legacy lives on through her countless contributions to Uzbek theater and culture. She remains an inspiration for aspiring artists and a symbol of artistic excellence in the region.

© BIOGRAPHS