Celebrated Kurdish artist Narmin Qadir, known for her iconic role in the popular television program “Barnama,” passed away Tuesday evening in Sulaymaniyah at age 63 after a prolonged battle with cancer, marking the end of a distinguished 50-year career in theater and Kurdish arts.
Long Battle with Cancer Ends
After years of courageously fighting cancer, veteran Kurdish artist Narmin Qadir died Tuesday evening in Sulaymaniyah, bringing to a close a remarkable artistic journey that spanned five decades. Niaz Nuri, head of the Kurdistan Artists’ Syndicate, confirmed that the beloved performer had been struggling with cancer for several years before her passing.
Born in Sulaymaniyah in 1962, Narmin Qadir began her artistic career in 1975 at the young age of 13, demonstrating early talent that would define her legacy in Kurdish entertainment. Her family had been part of the Kurdish liberation struggle, making sacrifices for the Kurdish cause while supporting her artistic pursuits.
Throughout her battle with illness, Qadir remained connected with her audience and colleagues. In a poignant social media post, she had written “cancer and I have become companions,” reflecting her characteristic strength and humor even during difficult times. Her daughter, Lolan Azad, had previously revealed that her mother underwent multiple surgeries, including two major operations for brain cancer, along with several other medical procedures.
Artistic Career and Television Fame
Narmin Qadir achieved widespread recognition through her role in the television program “Barnama,” which first aired on Khak TV in 1998 and later continued on Kurdsat television. The show became one of the most-watched programs in Kurdistan Region, capturing the attention of audiences across the region for several years. Her unique character in “Barnama” made her a household name and established her as an iconic figure in Kurdish entertainment.
Her theatrical career was equally impressive, with her performing on stage for 30 years before her final theatrical role in 1998. She participated in numerous theatrical productions and dramatic works, contributing significantly to the development of Kurdish theater. Her performances were known for their authenticity and emotional depth, earning her respect among fellow artists and critics alike.
Beyond her entertainment career, Qadir served as an employee at the Culture and Arts Directorate in Chamchamal, where she continued contributing to the cultural sector. She was married and had a son and daughter, balancing her professional achievements with family responsibilities throughout her career.
Official Condolences and Recognition
The Political Bureau of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan issued an official condolence statement following Qadir’s death, expressing grief over the loss of the talented artist. The statement praised her contributions to Kurdish culture and arts, describing her as a skilled and accomplished artist who served her people with distinction.
Iraq’s First Lady, Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad, also issued a heartfelt condolence message, emphasizing Qadir’s lasting impact on Kurdish arts and culture. In her statement, she wrote that Qadir’s “name, memory, and services, alongside her significant experience and distinguished performances in ‘Barnama,’ will remain brilliantly preserved in the history of art and the conscience of our people.”
The First Lady’s message reflected the widespread respect Qadir commanded across different sectors of society, acknowledging her role not just as an entertainer but as a cultural figure who helped shape Kurdish artistic expression.
Recent Recognition and Final Days
Just days before her passing, on July 28, 2025, Qadir received a special visit from representatives of President Bafel Jalal Talabani’s office, acting on direct instructions from the President. Qubad Talabani’s secretariat office visited the artist at her home in Allai town, recognizing her contributions as one of the distinguished and veteran characters in Kurdish performance and drama.
During this visit, the secretariat office praised Qadir’s role, efforts, and services to Kurdish arts, acknowledging her position as a pioneering figure in Kurdish entertainment. This recognition came as she continued her battle with illness, demonstrating the high regard in which she was held by Kurdistan Region’s leadership.
Lasting Legacy in Kurdish Arts
Narmin Qadir’s death marks the end of an era in Kurdish entertainment, as she represented a generation of artists who helped establish and develop Kurdish television and theater. Her work in “Barnama” alone influenced countless viewers and contributed to the evolution of Kurdish comedy and dramatic programming.
Her 50-year career witnessed significant changes in Kurdish society and media, and she adapted her artistry to remain relevant across different generations of audiences. From her early days in theater to her television success, Qadir maintained a connection with Kurdish cultural values while entertaining and educating her audience.
The artistic community mourns not only the loss of a talented performer but also a mentor figure who inspired younger generations of Kurdish artists. Her legacy continues through the programs she created, the performances she delivered, and the cultural contributions that helped define modern Kurdish entertainment.
