Saroj Khan: The lady who put the icon in iconic, passes away at 71

From Sridevi in ‘Hawa Hawai’ to Madhuri Dixit in ‘Ek Do Teen,’ these stars owe their stardom to the legendary choreographer, Saroj Khan. In an unfortunate cardiac arrest, the Master choreographer breathed her last today in Mumbai. She was aged 71. The news was confirmed by Saroj Khan’s daughter, Sukaina Khan. She had been admitted to the ICU since June 20 after complaining of breathing problems.

An Illustrious career

At the age of just 14, Saroj Khan had choreographed her first song under a famous dance director. After several other stints, her first solo work was in the movie “Geeta Mera Naam” in 1974. The major recognition for Saroj Khan came after the iconic song ‘Hawai Hawai’ in 1987, starring the late actress Sridevi. The 1990s was the golden period of her career with famous songs like “Ek Do Teen,” “Dhak Dhak Karne Laga,” and “Tamma Tamma.” Most of her songs were with Madhuri Dixit, whom she successfully turned into the most iconic dancer of that time. Awards and accolades weren’t unfamiliar to the choreographer. She has won several awards, among which the 3 National Awards for the songs ‘Dola re’, ‘Ek Do Teen,’ and ‘Yeh Ishq Haye’ are the highlights of her career. Her last work was for the movie ‘Kalank’ that was released last year.

Bollywood pays tribute to the legendary choreographer

Saroj Khan was the lady who gave wings to the careers of many Bollywood stars. The impeccable dancing style of Madhuri Dixit, the playful moves of Sridevi, or the heart-winning steps of Shahrukh Khan, all were the products of Saroj’s talent for dancing.

Bollywood started pouring in tributes for the choreographer whose works had led to the success of many movies. Among others, Madhuri Dixit’s post was the most trending. She had always said that her career would have never been the same without the guidance of Saroj Khan. “I’m devastated by the loss of my friend and guru, Saroj Khan.” Madhuri wrote on twitter. Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Akshay Kumar, and Farah Khan were some of the other artists who paid their tributes to the late choreographer.

Life and Family

Popularly known as ‘Masterji’ for her master dance moves, the iconic choreographer had a very busy schedule even during her last years. A mother to three children, Hamid Khan, Hina Khan, and Sukaina Khan, Saroj juggled work and life with ease. She married B. Sohanlal when she was aged just 13. But, their marriage didn’t last long, and the duo parted ways after 4 years. Since then, Khan had been living an independent life and showed every bit of courage and resilience to survive in this industry. She married businessman Sardar Roshan Khan after rising to fame and had been living a happy life with her family.

Dancing will never be the same again for anyone who loved the late choreographer. Her work has forever immortalized some of the stars in the hearts and minds of millions of people.