Pandit Birju Maharaj (1938–2022), born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is celebrated as the first known teacher of the classical dance form Kathak. A prodigious talent from the famed Kalka-Bindadin gharana, he was the son of the legendary Achhan Maharaj and carried forward the family legacy with unmatched grace and innovation.
Recognized for his mastery in both nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expressive storytelling), Birju Maharaj was invited to teach Kathak at the tender age of 13 at Sangeet Bharati. His teaching journey later took him to the Bharatiya Kala Kendra in New Delhi, where he shaped generations of dancers and helped globalize Kathak.
His contributions to Indian classical dance earned him prestigious accolades, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1966 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1986, India’s second-highest civilian honour.
A revered performer, composer, and teacher, Pandit Birju Maharaj transformed Kathak from a courtly tradition into a global performance art, securing his legacy as the foremost guru and ambassador of the form.
