Like all classical dancers, I consider Maharajji my guru. He was a source of inspiration for generations, and for both, [dancers like me] and the layman. I learnt about the art form by watching him on stage. He was an unfettered artistic genius and a kind and wonderful human being. I only wanted to imbibe his unbridled passion for dance. He was magnificent and impromptu; you just had to experience his magical moves.

I have been part of Maharajji’s Ritu Samhara shows, which expressed six different seasons through six dance forms — Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Manipuri, Kuchipudi and Odissi. I have travelled with him for several shows, including for Ritu Samhara in Moscow. Even though he was a kathak icon, every classical dance form was dear to him.