Pandit Birju Maharaj

This doyen of Kathak and the scion of the first family of the Lucknow Gharana has become a virtual embodiment of the art itself. Pandit Birju Maharaj inherited the art from his father Pandit Acchan Maharaj and his uncles Shambhu Maharaj and Lacchu Maharaj.

During the last forty years, this legendary figure has led the Kathak scene as an exceptional dancer, teacher and choreographer. His brilliant performance won him the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award at the age of twenty eight. He has been serving the Kathak Kendra, Delhi as its principal Guru. As chief of the Production unit of Kathak Kendra, he has created several works of abiding aesthetic value.

This Grandmaster has acted as a bridge between Kathak past and present and has been honoured with the Kalidas Samman and the Padma Vibhushan. Other artistes...