Only the hearts of art lovers would understand the distress and suffering since January 17th, 2022. Today, we will talk about the greatest legend in the world of Kathak - the one and only, Pt Birju Maharaj Ji.
If people know, learn, and admire Kathak in today's times, it is because of Maharaj Ji.
He is the source of making Kathak look more aesthetic and appealing to the viewers. If Kathak is a soulful treat to the eyes, then Maharaj Ji has a prominent role in making this happen.
Born on February 4th, 1938, to the "Kalka-Bindadin Gharana", Pt. Brijmohan Mishra, fondly known as Pt. "Birju" Maharaj Ji, represented the seventh generation of the Lucknow Gharana. The style, elegance, and beauty of this Gharana used to make everyone spellbound. His dance was subtle, nuanced, delicate, yet vigorous. The way the Ghungroos were stringed on his ankles mimicked the sounds of a beautiful melody. Maharaj Ji would say - "Your ghungroos should sound as if they are talking to one another and not fighting."
This is an integral lesson for every student of Kathak.
The element that makes an artist a holistic artist is when they are aware and knowledgeable of other art forms. Besides being a legendary Kathak artist, Maharaj Ji was equally adept in various singing styles, percussion and other instruments. Not only did he write countless Thumris, but he also composed and choreographed them for grand-scale dance productions across the world. His relentless efforts are a testament to his artistic talents.
Maharaj Ji's contributions go beyond the realms of Indian classical dance and music. He has influenced the music and melodies in the Hindi film industry to a great extent. Maharaj Ji worked as a choreographer and composer for many movies such as Devdas, Bajirao Mastaani, Umrao Jaan, Dedh Ishqiya, Shatranj Ke Khiladi, etc. Maharaj Ji even lent his voice for the song "Kahe Chhed Chhed Mohe" in Devdas.
Some of Pt. Birju Maharaj Ji's list of achievements and accolades include -
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1964
- Receiving the Padmavibhushan title in 1986
- Nritya Choodamani Award in 1986
- Kalidas Samman in 1987
- Lata Mangeshkar Puraskar in 2002
- Sangam Kala Award
- Bharat Muni Samman
- Andhra Ratna
- Nritya Vilas Award
- Andhra Shila Shikhar Samman
- National Nritya Shiromani Award
- Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavna Award
- National Film Award for "Best Choreography" (Vishwaroopam) in 2012
- Filmfare Award for "Best Choreography" (Mohe Rang Do Lal) in 2016
Maharaj Ji's children, Pt. Jai Kishan Maharaj, Pt. Deepak Maharaj, Vidushi Mamta Maharaj; grandchildren Tribhuwan Maharaj, Ragini Maharaj, and Yashaswani Maharaj; along with his disciples, are spreading the fragrance and essence of Kathak across the globe.
Maharaj Ji, we will always attempt to walk on the path you have created for us. May you continue to bless us all in our endeavours of keeping your art and teachings intact.
Kathak is the most mesmerizing dance form woven around the concept of storytelling.
Click here to know more about the different concepts related to charming dance mudras, and footwork such as Mudras In Dance & Padhant.
