Actors should not be called students: Birju Maharaj

Birju Maharaj, who is fondly referred to as <g data-gr-id="57">Maharaj ji</g> by his students, recently performed in the national Capital at the Purana Quila Dance festival. The Kathak maestro’s endeavours have helped him put this dance form on the world map. The founder of Kalashram, Maharaj ji has taken Kathak to new heights by choreographing new Kathak dance dramas. Many classical art enthusiasts are trained by him as he holds workshops across the country. Millennium Post caught up with him after his performance.

Delhi government has organised this festival for the first time what do you have to say about this?

I welcome this initiative by the Delhi government. Different audiences have differing  tastes, so they expect something different. We have tried to  incorporate fusion music and many other elements. More people will witness the rich dance forms and heritage of Indian culture. 

<g data-gr-id="54">Yes</g> indeed I feel satisfied when I see perfection. Rehearsing gives me immense joy. I feel that dance teaches us to love <g data-gr-id="50">ourself</g> and our bodies. Dance makes us realise the importance of fingers, elbows, neck and all other body parts. Dance helps to make the best use of what god has bestowed upon us.

I feel very good when my students perform. It is satisfying because I know that the art will not die. When we are not performing, we sing and dance together. In <g data-gr-id="45">fact</g> I was having fun with them a little while ago before this performance. 

Do not call her a student. See with movie stars the work is till the dance sequence is completed. They tend to practice for 3-4 days before the shooting begins, hence they cannot be called students. A real <g data-gr-id="49">shishya</g> is the one who is with the art and rehearses regularly for minimum 4-6 years. But the truth is that the Bollywood actors do make an honest effort.