Ahmed Khan remembers Saroj Khan on her death anniversary: 'Losing her was deeply personal'

IANS July 3, 2025 380 views

Ahmed Khan remembers his beloved mentor Saroj Khan on her third death anniversary with deep emotional reverence. Their relationship transcended professional boundaries, with Khan viewing her as a maternal figure who guided his early career. Saroj Khan, nicknamed Masterji, was a legendary choreographer who defined Bollywood dance for decades. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of dancers and choreographers in the Indian film industry.

"She was like a mother figure to me, and I have known her since I was a child." - Ahmed Khan
Ahmed Khan remembers Saroj Khan on her death anniversary: 'Losing her was deeply personal'
Mumbai, July 3: On the occasion of Saroj Khan's death anniversary, choreographer and filmmaker Ahmed Khan fondly remembered the legendary dance guru, calling her loss 'deeply personal and emotional.'

Key Points

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Ahmed Khan began career as background dancer under Saroj Khan's guidance

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Saroj Khan was a three-time National Award-winning choreographer

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She created memorable dance sequences for over 2,000 Bollywood songs

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Khan considered Saroj Khan more than a teacher - like family

Ahmed worked with Saroj Khan in the blockbuster film "Mr. India" and later replaced the late choreographer in Aamir Khan's movie "Rangeela" due to date issues. Remembering Saroj Khan, Khan shared there isn't a day when he does not miss or remember her. She was and always will be his family.

Ahmed Khan began his career as a background dancer under Saroj Khan's guidance, and the two shared a close bond. She was more than just a teacher to him--she was like a mother and a strong support in his early career.

The director said, "She was like a mother figure to me, and I have known her since I was a child. She always took care of me on the sets and treated me like a son. Losing her was very personal, and there isn't a day when I don't miss or remember her. She was and always will be family."

Saroj Khan, fondly known as Masterji, passed away due to cardiac arrest on 3 July 2020. She was 71. The three-time National Award-winning choreographer was known for crafting moves for over 2,000 songs during her career. Some of her most memorable works include chart-toppers like "Dhak Dhak Karne Laga" from "Beta," "Ek Do Teen" from "Tezaab," and "Hawa Hawai" from Mr. India among many others.

Saroj Khan's final film was "Kalank," featuring Madhuri Dixit. Her passing was mourned by many in the film industry; From Amitabh Bachchan to Shah Rukh Khan, several celebrities paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary choreographer.

SRK wrote in a tweet, "My first genuine teacher in the film industry. She taught me for hours how to do the 'dip' for film dancing. One of the most caring, loving, & inspiring persona i have ever met. Will miss you Sarojji. May Allah bless her soul. Thank u for looking after me."

Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Beautiful tribute by Ahmed Khan. It's heartwarming to see such genuine guru-shishya relationships in Bollywood. Masterji's contribution to Indian cinema is unparalleled - from Madhuri's grace to Sridevi's expressions, she elevated every performance.
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Amit K
While I respect her work, I feel today's choreographers like Remo and Ganesh Acharya have taken Indian dance to new heights with more contemporary styles. Saroj Khan was great for her time though.
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Shweta Y
"Hawa Hawai" was my childhood anthem! Every birthday party in the 90s had this song playing. Masterji created magic with simple yet iconic steps that anyone could follow. Today's item songs don't have that charm or repeat value. Miss you Sarojji! 🕺💃
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Nikhil C
The way she made non-dancers like Shah Rukh Khan look graceful is proof of her genius. Her choreography wasn't just about steps, but about bringing out the actor's personality through movement. That's why her songs still feel fresh decades later.
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Meera T
My mother used to tell me how Saroj Khan broke barriers in a male-dominated industry. From being a background dancer to becoming the most sought-after choreographer - what an inspiring journey! We need more documentaries on such pioneering women of Indian cinema.

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Tags:
Saroj Khan Ahmed Khan Bollywood Choreography Dance Guru Mr. India Rangeela