Last Update: February 04, 2023, 09:10 IST
Last year on January 17, the famous artist passed away at the age of 83.
Today, on the birth anniversary of Pandit Birju Maharaj, we pay tribute to the iconic artist by reflecting on his career.
Pandit Birju Maharaj, the maestro of Kathak and one of India’s best known and loved artistes, was the torch bearer and face of the Kalka Bindadin Gharana of Lucknow. He was a unique institution in the world of performing arts. He performed in many countries. Last year on January 17, the famous artist passed away at the age of 83, surrounded by his family and students. Today, on the birth anniversary of Pandit Birju Maharaj, we pay tribute to the iconic artist by reflecting on his career.
Distinguished Recipients of the Padma Vibhushan Award
A pioneer in Indian classical dance, Panditji was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1986 for his contribution to the performing arts. She started her career as an Indian classical dancer at the age of 13.
Kalaashram – School of Performing Arts
In 1998, after retiring from Bhartiya Kala Kendra and Kathak Kendra, Panditji established Kalashram, the dance school of his dreams. Kalaashram specializes in Kathak, vocal and instrumental music, yoga, art, Sanskrit, theatrical and stage arts.
Panditji’s Awards and Honors
In a career spanning nearly six decades, Panditji won several national and international awards. He received honorary doctorates from Banaras Hindu University and Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya. His accolades include Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Award, Sangeet Kala Ratna, Bharat Ratna Bhimsen Joshi Classical Music Life Achievement Award and many more. He won the National Film Award for Best Choreography in 2012.
Contribution to Bollywood
Pandit Birju Maharaj choreographed some of the best dance performances of Bollywood. He choreographed Kahe Chhed from Devdas, Jagave Saari Raina from Dedh Ishqiya, Unnai Kanadhu Naan from Vishwaroopam, Mohe Rang Do from Gadar as a Bollywood choreographer. Madhuri Dixit was his favorite actress for a long time.
sentimental poet
He was a charismatic orator, Kathak dancer and passionate poet who excelled in Thumri, Dadra, Bhajans and Ghazals. His poetry covered a wide variety of subjects, from Krishna devotion to modern poetry and satire. Brij Shyam is the pen name he uses in his writings.
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