Master choreographer Saroj Khan has passed away at the age of 72 due to cardiac arrest in the ICU of Guru Nanak Hospital. She was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai on June 20 after she complained of breathing issues. The last rites of Saroj Khan will be peformed at Malvani in Malad, Mumbai today.
She was lovingly referred to as "MasterJi". In a career spanning 40 years Khan has been credited with choreographing more than 2,000 songs.
The three-time National Award winner had choreographed for some of the most memorable tracks, including "Dola Re Dola" from Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Devdas", "Ek Do Teen" from Madhuri Dixit-starrer "Tezaab" and "Ye Ishq Haaye" from "Jab We Met" in 2007. Saroj Khan rose to fame in the late eighties, choreographing Sridevi superhits such as "Main naagin tu sapera" (Nagina") and "Hawaa hawaai" ("Mr India").
Lately, she had been picky with signing new assignments. Her recent works include choreographing Kangana Ranaut in "Manikarnika" last year and "Tanu Weds Manu Returns" in 2015. Her last major project was directing Madhuri's moves in last year's release, "Kalank". She last choreographed for "Tabaah Hogaye", featuring Madhuri from filmmaker Karan Johar's production "Kalank" in 2019.
Khan is survived by her husband and 2 daughters.
Celebrities such as Kareen Kapoor Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Sunil Grover, and Vivek Agnihotri all shared their condolances via Twitter.
RIP to the legendary Saroj Khan. You will be missed! pic.twitter.com/TUplrxCLah
— Kareena Kapoor Khan (@KareenaK_FC) July 3, 2020
Saroj ji’s name introduced the word ‘choreographer’ to my life. A genius who immortalised stars and the music that defined an era with her iconic work. May her loved ones find strength and courage at this terrible hour. There’ll never be another...#RIPSarojKhan #Legend #Masterji pic.twitter.com/EffYUvX7Ca
— Nimrat Kaur (@NimratOfficial) July 3, 2020
Shocked to know the sad demise of Saroj khan ji. An era comes to an end with her. Rest in peace. 🙏
— Sunil Grover (@WhoSunilGrover) July 3, 2020
OMG. Woke up to this terrible news of Saroj Khan passing away. A master of her art. Always received her unconditional love. Had the opportunity to work with her in Billo Rani song from Goal. May God give her soul peace. RIP. pic.twitter.com/RD4QSC2TT6
— Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) July 3, 2020