EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal has paid tribute to her beloved mother, Nirmal Sopal, following her death in February.
The Suki Panesar star took to Instagram to inform her followers of her mum’s sad passing, while paying tribute to her ‘warmth’ and ‘love’.
In a heartfelt statement, Balvinder explained that Nirmal had ‘passed peacefully, with dignity & grace, just as she’d lived her whole life’, with Balvinder and her sister by her side.
‘As we told people, the one thing constant in people’s memory was Mums huge warm smile, her ability to adapt to change & show love & respect to all,’ she wrote, alongside a collection of photos of Nirmal with her family members.
‘Our home was always open; a shelter from the rain whilst waiting for the bus. For pronthey & chaa. For all the children to come & chill after school. There was always food. Our home was busy, warm, & full of love because of mum.’
She went on to express her admiration for her mother’s hard work and confidence, and revealed that she was a huge support for the whole family.
‘She was our rock, friend, confidant, guiding light. She was my No. 1 fan travelling up & down the country, with dad watching shows. Mum was an extraordinary teacher of life just by being & doing everything with love.
‘LOVE is Mum’s legacy.’
Balvinder’s emotional post was soon flooded with supportive comments from her EastEnders co-stars.
Navin Chowdhry, who plays Suki’s ex-husband Nish Panesar, wrote: ‘The most beautiful words Bal. Sending you all the love in the world. She will be by your side, holding your hand forever. Rest in peace Aunty. Waheguru.’
Ravi Gulati actor Aaron Thiara also sent his condolences, saying: ‘Aunty’s legacy will continue each day guided by her profound light. My heart is heavy… but may you all hold each other tightly in fond memory. My thoughts, condolences, and infinite love to you & family my friend.’
On-screen grandson, Nugget Gulati actor Juhaim Rasul Choudhruy said, ‘Prayers, blessings and love to you and your family,’ while Gurlaine Kaur Garcha, who played on-screen daughter Ash Panesar wrote: ‘This made me cry. what a beautiful tribute, and what an amazing woman. she is so proud of you bal. i’m right here, whenever you need me.’
