Poonam Jha Azad, Politician and Wife of Kirti Azad, Passes Away

Poonam Jha Azad, the wife of former Indian cricketer Kirti Azad, passed away on a Monday afternoon after battling a prolonged illness. Kirti announced her death on social media, expressing gratitude for the support and good wishes received during her illness. Poonam was not only known for her marriage to a cricketing legend but also for her political career, having been a leader in the Aam Aadmi Party before joining the Congress in 2017. Her political journey was marked by her commitment to public service and her active involvement in various initiatives. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had known Poonam for many years, expressed her condolences on social media, highlighting the efforts made by Kirti and their family to support Poonam during her illness. Asaduddin Owaisi, a prominent political figure, also shared his sorrow over her passing, acknowledging the family's struggle during her critical health issues. This outpouring of condolences reflects the impact Poonam had on those around her, both personally and politically. Poonam and Kirti Azad had two sons, Suryavardhan and Soumyavardhan, who have both pursued cricket at various levels. Kirti Azad, a member of a family with a legacy in Indian politics, played a significant role in Indian cricket history as a World Cup winner in 1983. The couple's journey together was marked by shared values in both family and public service, leaving a lasting legacy in their respective fields. Her passing is a significant loss to both her family and the political community, as she was a figure of resilience and dedication. The tributes from political leaders underscore the respect she garnered throughout her life, and her contributions will be remembered by many.