MUMBAI: Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan passed away in Mumbai on Friday following a cardiac arrest aged 71.
Her daughter Sukaina Khan confirmed the news to Indian media. She was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai on June 20 after she complained of breathing issues.
Saroj Khan is survived by three children namely Hamid, Hina and Sukaina Khan. She has choreographed some of the best dance numbers featuring actresses Sridevi, Madhuri Dixit, Kareena Kapoor and Kangana Ranaut.
Madhuri Dixit said she was devastated by the loss of her “friend and guru”, adding she will always be grateful for helping her reach full potential in dance. “The world has lost an amazingly talented person,” she said, and expressed her condolences.
I’m devastated by the loss of my friend and guru, Saroj Khan. Will always be grateful for her work in helping me reach my full potential in dance. The world has lost an amazingly talented person. I will miss you???? My sincere condolences to the family. #RIPSarojji
— Madhuri Dixit Nene (@MadhuriDixit) July 3, 2020
Woke up to the sad news that legendary choreographer #SarojKhan ji is no more. She made dance look easy almost like anybody can dance, a huge loss for the industry. May her soul rest in peace ????????
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) July 3, 2020
Saroj Khan was born as Nirmala Nagpal. She joined the Indian film industry as a child artist before becoming a background dancer in 1950s films like ‘Madhumati’ under the guidance of dance director B. Sohanlal.
She became an assistant choreographer and her first break as an independent choreographer came with ‘Geeta Mera Naam’ (1974). She gained fame with the song ‘Hawa Hawai’ from Mr India (1987). Her collaboration with Sridevi on other projects like ‘Chandni’and ‘Nagina’ further boosted her profile.
It was her collaboration with Madhuri Dixit that transformed the careers of both the artistes, beginning with ‘Ek Do Teen’ (Tezaab), and following it up with dance numbers ‘Tamma Tamma Loge’ (Thanedaar), ‘Hum Ko Aaj Kal Hai Intezaar’(Sailaab) and ‘Dhak Dhak Karne Laga’ (Beta).
Saroj Khan’s reunited with Madhuri in ‘Gulaab Gang’ (2014). In a career spanning four decades, Khan choreographed nearly 2000 songs while her appearance on the small screen included being the judge on reality dance shows.
ADVERTISEMENT
