Shambhu Maharaj

Pandit Shambhu Maharaj was born in the year 1910 and was a famous name among the classical dancers fraternity. He was a dancer who belonged to Lucknow Gharana of Indian classical dance form, Kathak.

Pandit Shambhu Maharaj, whose actual name is Shambhunath Mishra, was born in the city of Lucknow. He was the youngest child of his father, Kalka Prasad Maharaj, an artist at the court of the Nawab of Awadh- Wajid Ali Shah. Thakur Prasad, the father of Kalka Prasad Maharaj and grandfather of Pandit Shambhu Maharaj was famous for teaching the techniques and intricacies of Kathak to the Nawab. He received his early dance training from his father. His uncle, Bindadin Maharaj and even his elder brothers, Achchan Maharaj and Lacchu Maharaj were tremendously helpful and supportive regarding dance. He learned Hindustani classical music from Ustad Rahimuddin Khan.

In the year 1952 Shambhu Maharaj joined the Kathak Kendra at Delhi, which was previously known as Bharatiya Kala Kendra. He was promoted to the top post as head of dance department (Dance).

Amongst his pupils, the most popular Kathak exponents are his nephew Birju Maharaj, Kumudini Lakhia, Damayanti Joshi, Bharati Gupta, Uma Sharma and Rina Singha.. His son Rammohan Maharaj was also his disciple and continues to perform his style

* He was honoured with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship in 1967
* PadmaShri in 1956

Pandit Shambhu Maharaj had two sons and a daughter by the name of Krishnamohan, Rammohan and Rameshwari respectively.

Pandit Shambhu Maharaj died on 4th November 1970 after undergoing prolonged treatment of throat cancer.