Saroj Khan, Bollywood’s ‘masterji’, dies of cardiac arrest at 71

Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan died of a cardiac arrest late on Thursday night; she was 71. She was admitted to Mumbai’s Guru Nanak Hospital last month after she complained of trouble in breathing.

Saroj Khan was in the hospital since June 17 after she complained of breathing difficulties. She had tested negative for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Saroj Khan is survived by her husband, son and two daughters

Born in 1948, Saroj Khan started her career as a child artiste at the age of 3. Graduating to a back-up dancer in the 1950s, she worked with choreographer B Sohanlal.

She started working as a choreographer with Geeta Mera Naam (1974), but it was while working with Sridevi and Madhuri Dixit that her career touched new heights. Mr India (1987), Nagina (1986), Chandni (1989), Tezaab (1988), and Thanedaar (1990) had some of the memorable songs choreographed by her. She collaborated with Madhuri again in Kalank (2018).

Her signature moves in Hawa Hawai, Chandni, Tama Tamma, Ek Do Teen, Dola Re Dola and Dhak Dhak Karne Laga are remembered to this day. She also worked on TV as a reality show judge between 2005-2010.