Madhuri Dixit pays tribute to Pandit Birju Maharaj: He was my guru but also my friend

Kathak legend Pandit Birju Maharaj passed away at his home in Delhi. He died on Monday (January 17) at around 12:15-12:30 am. He was 83. The Padma Vibhushan awardee was not only a prolific dancer, but a great singer, poet and painter. His contribution to the Indian film industry is immense. He choreographed songs for many Bollywood actresses but Madhuri Dixit remained his favourite.

Madhuri mourned the death of her ‘guru’ on social media. She shared a throwback picture with Birju Maharaj and penned an obituary remembering the legend.

She wrote, “He was a legend but had a child like innocence. He was my guru but also my friend. He taught me the intricacies of dance and Abhinay but never failed to make me laugh at his funny anecdotes. He has left behind grieving fans and students but also left a legacy we will all carry forward. Thank you Maharajji for everything you taught me in dance along with humility, elegance and grace. कोटी कोटी प्रणाम??,” with hashtags #PanditBirjuMaharaj #Guruji #RIP.

Take a look at Madhuri Dixit’s post for Pandit Birju Maharaj.

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A post shared by Madhuri Dixit (@madhuridixitnene)

Pandit Birju Maharaj worked with Madhuri Dixit in Dil Toh Pagal Hai, Devdas and Dedh Ishqiya. He also directed Kamal Haasan in Vishwaroopam and Deepika Padukone in Bajirao Mastani. In 2016, he bagged the Filmfare Award for Best Choreography for Bajirao Mastani. His first collaboration was with Satyajit Ray for the cult classic Shatranj Ke Khiladi.

Also Read: Legendary Kathak Dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj passes away