Famed choreographer Saroj Khan passes away

Saroj Khan, one of India's most prominent choreographers, has passed away at the age of 71 in Mumbai, following a cardiac arrest. She had been admitted to Guru Nanak Hospital in Mumbai since June 17. She had severe diabetes, and related illnesses. Saroj Khan had been tested for coronavirus while being treated for other illnesses, but her test results were negative. The choreographer is survived by her husband B Sohanlal, son Hamid Khan and daughters Hina and Sukyna Khan. Her funeral was held in Mumbai.

Born in 1948, her introduction into the film industry was as a child artiste. In the 1950s, Saroj Khan became a back-up dancer, appearing in films like Bimal Roy's Madhumati, where she was choreographed by dance director B Sohanlal, who she later married. From here on, Saroj Khan's career evolved into that of an assistant choreographer until 1974, when she got her break in the movie Geeta Mera Naam. In the 1980s, Saroj Khan became a recognisable name in the industry after she started working with Bollywood stars like Sridevi Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit, both of whom have danced to prominent Hindi film songs.

"I am devasted by the loss of my friend and guru, Saroj Khan," tweeted Madhuri Dixit. "Will always be grateful for her work in helping me reach my full potential in dance."

Saroj Khan was a three-time National Award winner who had iconic numbers such as Hawa Hawai from 'Mr India' (1987), Ek Do Teen from 'Tezaab' (1988), Dhak Dhak Karne Laga from 'Beta' (1992) and Dola Re Dola from 'Devdas' (2002) under her belt. She last choreographed Madhuri Dixit in the song Tabaah Ho Gaye from Karan Johar's production, 'Kalank' in 2019.