---
title: "Birju Maharaj: Kathak Legend (UPSC GS1) | Model Diplomat"
description: "Birju Maharaj (1938–2022) led the Lucknow gharana of Kathak. A recurring UPSC GS1 art-and-culture name—learn his gharana, awards and films at a glance."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/birju-maharaj"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Birju Maharaj (1938–2022) was the foremost exponent of the Lucknow gharana of Kathak, an Indian classical dancer, choreographer, vocalist and composer.
- To which gharana of Kathak did Birju Maharaj belong?
- What civilian honours did Birju Maharaj receive?
- How is the Lucknow gharana distinct from the Jaipur gharana of Kathak?
- Which films feature choreography by Birju Maharaj?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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## Timeline

1. 4 February 1938

   Birju Maharaj (born Brij Mohan Nath Mishra, in Lucknow; died 17 January 2022 in New Delhi) was the leading twentieth- and twenty-first-century exponent of t…

2. 17 January 2022

   Birju Maharaj (born Brij Mohan Nath Mishra, 4 February 1938 in Lucknow; died in New Delhi) was the leading twentieth- and twenty-first-century exponent of t…

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Example

In 2016, Birju Maharaj won the Filmfare Award for Best Choreography for "Mohe Rang Do Laal" in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Bajirao Mastani," bringing Lucknow-gharana Kathak to a mass cinema audience.

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