Saroj Khan
Saroj Khan 
| |
|---|---|
| |
| Saroj Khan in the 2000s | |
| Born | 22 November 1948 |
| Birthplace | Bombay, Bombay State, India |
| Nationality | |
| Occupation | Choreographer, Actress |
| Known for | Bollywood dance choreography |
| Website | |
Saroj Khan (born Nirmala Nagpal; 22 November 1948 – 3 July 2020) was an acclaimed Indian choreographer whose work transformed Bollywood dance into a widely recognized cinematic art form. With a career that spanned over six decades, she became known for her signature style, powerful expressions, and ability to blend classical technique with cinematic storytelling. She was one of the first women to establish herself as a leading choreographer in the male-dominated Hindi film industry.
Early Life
Saroj Khan was born in Bombay to a family that migrated from Pakistan after the Partition of India. She began working in the film industry at a very young age, initially appearing as a child artist and background dancer. Her early exposure to cinema inspired her interest in choreography, and she eventually trained under the prominent choreographer B. Sohanlal.
At just 13 years old, she married Sohanlal, who was significantly older and already married. Though the marriage was kept secret initially, it resulted in two children. After their separation, she later married Sardar Roshan Khan, with whom she had a daughter.
Career
Saroj Khan's first job as an independent choreographer came in the 1970s, but it was during the 1980s that she rose to prominence. Her breakthrough came through her collaborations with leading actresses like Sridevi and Madhuri Dixit. Khan’s choreography for songs such as “Hawa Hawai” (*Mr. India*), “Ek Do Teen” (*Tezaab*), and “Dhak Dhak Karne Laga” (*Beta*) turned her into a household name. Her unique choreography style emphasized expressive storytelling, intricate hand movements, and dramatic facial expressions.
She choreographed over 3000 songs in her lifetime, spanning multiple decades and genres. Her ability to adapt to changing trends while retaining her signature flair helped her stay relevant even as Bollywood evolved.
Television Appearances
In addition to her film work, Saroj Khan was a respected figure on Indian television. She appeared as a judge and mentor on various dance reality shows, including *Nach Baliye*, *Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa*, and *Boogie Woogie*. She also hosted her own show, *Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan*, where she taught dance routines to aspiring dancers and fans.
Style and Influence
Saroj Khan’s choreography blended classical Indian dance forms such as Kathak and Bharatanatyam with the vibrancy and energy of Bollywood music. She emphasized performance, emotion, and grace, and was particularly known for creating memorable routines for female characters that highlighted their strength and complexity.
She mentored many actors and dancers, earning a reputation for being strict but nurturing. Her collaboration with Madhuri Dixit remains one of the most iconic actor-choreographer partnerships in Indian film history.
Awards and Recognition
Saroj Khan was one of the most awarded choreographers in Bollywood. She won numerous Filmfare Awards for Best Choreography, and was the first recipient when the category was introduced. She also received multiple National Film Awards for her work in films like *Devdas*, *Sringaram*, and *Jab We Met*.
Personal Life
Saroj Khan converted to Islam after marrying Sardar Roshan Khan. She balanced her professional life with her responsibilities as a mother, and later in life focused on mentoring new talent. Her daughter Sukaina Khan went on to run a dance academy in Dubai.
Death
Saroj Khan passed away on 3 July 2020 in Mumbai due to cardiac arrest. Her death was widely mourned across the film industry, and tributes poured in from actors, filmmakers, and dancers she had worked with or mentored. Her legacy continues through her influence on generations of choreographers and performers.
Legacy
Often referred to as the "Mother of Bollywood Dance," Saroj Khan is credited with bringing a level of depth, emotion, and technical brilliance to film choreography. Her contribution to Indian cinema remains unparalleled, and she is remembered as a trailblazer who opened doors for female choreographers in the film industry.
Notable Songs
- Ek Do Teen – *Tezaab*
- Hawa Hawai – *Mr. India*
- Dhak Dhak Karne Laga – *Beta*
- Dola Re Dola – *Devdas*
- Ye Ishq Haaye – *Jab We Met*