Remembering Birju Maharaj: Kahe Ched Mohe to Mohe Rang Do Laal, film songs choreographed by Kathak maestro
Brijmohan Mishra, popularly known as Pandit Birju Maharaj, is a synonym for Kathak. Padma Vibhushan recipient passes away in Delhi at the age of 83. Born to Kathak exponent Jagannath Maharaj, better known as Achchan Maharaj, Birju Maharaj started performing at the age of seven. He inherited the Kathak legacy – from his grandfather to his father and then to him. The Kathak veteran said that he moved to Delhi after the death of his father and started teaching Kathak at the age of 13 to support his family.
The house on Gwyn Road, where he trained under the watchful eyes of Achchan Maharaj and his uncles Shambhu and Lachhu Maharaj, is now a Kathak museum. “Kalka-Bindadin ki Dyodhi” is named after Birju Maharaj’s grandfather and his brother, who are considered to be the pioneers in the establishment of the Lucknow gharana. Dances in films like Mughal-e-Azam and Pakeezah were choreographed by his uncle Lachhu Maharaj. Pandit Birju Maharaj himself gave many memorable songs to Bollywood. Remembering the Kathak player, here are the popular film songs choreographed by him.
Dil Toh Pagal Hain Instrumental Kathak Dance
Aan Milo Sajna – Gadar: Ek Prem Katha
Kahe Ched Mohe – Devdas
Main Radha Tu Sham – Vishwaroop
Apne Karar Mein – Dedh Ishqiya
Mohe Rang Do Laal – Bajirao Mastani
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