Jai Kishan Maharaj

🪔 About

Pandit Jai Kishan Maharaj, a prominent figure in Indian classical dance, is an eighth-generation Kathak exponent of the illustrious Kalka-Bindadin Gharana of Lucknow. Born on May 12, 1962, he is the elder son and a 'Ganda Bandhan' disciple of the legendary Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj, from whom he received his initial training in Kathak at an early age. His training immersed him in the Lucknow gharana style, emphasizing intricate footwork, expressive abhinaya (mime), and rhythmic sophistication, thereby continuing his family's oral tradition of teaching and performing Kathak. Throughout his career, Jai Kishan Maharaj has performed at major festivals and venues both in India and internationally, often accompanying his father and contributing to the global appreciation of Kathak through solo recitals and collaborative productions. Beyond his prowess as a dancer and guru, he is also recognized as a renowned music composer, choreographer, and poet. He gained acclaim for his creative choreography in the super hit Hindi film 'Dil to Pagal Hai'. Since July 2009, he has served as a Kathak Guru at Kathak Kendra in Delhi, where he also holds additional responsibilities as a choreographer for the repertory. In 2003, he co-founded "Birju Maharaj Parampara," a registered society dedicated to the spread of Kathak dance, along with his wife, Smt. Ruby Mishra. This institution nurtures disciples in the traditional Guru-Shishya Parampara and is affiliated with Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh. Awards & Honours: Business and Entertainment Award, Bharat Icon Award, Delhi Ratna Award, Gaurav Award.