Birju Maharaj, in full Brijmohan Nath Mishra Maharaj, (born February 4, 1937). Indian dancer, a master of the kathak form, and a leading exponent of the Kalka-Bindadin Gharana (community of musicians sharing a distinctive musical style) of Lucknow.
He is known as the ‘Father of Kathak dance’. Much of his work is very appreciable and loved by everyone. Surrounded by a musical atmosphere. His inborn talent surfaced at the early age of three years. It was clear that he was god-gifted as he began reciting complex tihais and tukras as a toddler.
Known Awards and Achievements of Birju Maharaj-
Birju Maharaj is known for his work on Bajirao Mastani in 2015. Despite the movie having several memorable dance performances from Deepika Padukone as Mastani. ‘Mohe Rang Do Laal’ leaves a lasting impression. While Pandit-Ji was choreographing the dance.
Padukone expressed concern about matching up to the maestro’s standards. However, he put her mind at ease saying that she put a lot of hard work into her steps.
Pandit-Ji’s contributions go up to ‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’. It is set in 1947. During India’s partition, it follows a Sikh truck driver. He falls in love with a Muslim aristocratic girl. His choreography remains memorable in this movie.
In 2012 – National Film Award for Choreography for Unnai Kaanaathu in Vishwaroopam, In 2016 Filmfare award for best choreography for Mohe Rang Do Laal in Bajirao Mastani.
His talent grew multi-fold when besidenews18.com his mastery over Kathak, he also became a superb musician, percussionist, composer, teacher, director, choreographer, and poet. He went on to compose many dance dramas like ‘Gobardhan Leela’, ‘Makhan Chori’, ‘Malti-Madhav’, ‘Kumar Sambhav’, and ‘Phag Bahar.’
