‘Kathak is incomplete sans Lachchhu Maharaj's touch'
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Lucknow: Birju Maharaj Kathak Sansthan paid tribute to Kathak legend Pandit Lacchu Maharaj through 'Guru Smaran', a commemorative event, at Rai Umanath Bali auditorium on Saturday.
The evening commenced with students presenting 'guru ashtakam'. Chief guest Anil Rastogi, a veteran actor and senior dramatist, shared personal memories of his association with Lacchu Maharaj. "His insightful feedback on Darpan's theatrical productions was invaluable to me as a director," Rastogi recalled. Prof Mandavi Singh, who has researched the maestro's contribution, emphasised his significance to Kathak.
"The art form is incomplete without Lacchu Maharaj's innovations, his influence was so profound that my guru, his student, mentioned him daily, inspired me to research on him," she said. The highlight of the evening was a documentary showcasing Lacchu Maharaj's illustrious journey, from his early training under his father and brother to his successful stint in Hindi film industry, where he choreographed iconic films like 'Mughal-e-Azam', 'Kala Pani' and 'Pakeezah', besides his photographs while teaching his students and several performances.
BMKS president Kum Kum Dhar Choudhary, director Sanjay Kumar Singh and assistant director Tuhin Diwedi were present.
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