In 2016, the government had converted Pt. Birju Maharaj’s ancestral home in Wazirganj, Lucknow into a Kathak Museum. Kalka-Bindadin ki Dyodhi, as the house is referred to, was the birthplace of Pt. Birju Maharaj, the doyen of Kathak. It showcases the personal belongings like clothes, accessories and books of Maharaj ji and his family who popularised the art of Kathak. In fact, the house was given to his ancestors by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, a great patron of arts and culture of Oudh.
The entrance leads into a courtyard with a well, where a three-dimensional mural of dancers is painted on the walls. The main hall is lined with framed photographs of Birju Maharaj’s performances with maestros like Girija Devi.
The busts of his uncles Shambhu Maharaj and Lachchhu Maharaj, and father Achchhan Maharaj are displayed to chronicle the contribution of the family to the art of Kathak. A kiosk also offers information about the family tree of Birju Maharaj.
Among other notable items at the museum is a poshak (costume) that was worn by Maharaj Kalka Bindadin, Pt. Birju Maharaj’s old camera and his ghunghrus.
The Kathak Museum has other memorabilia on display in the room of rest, kitchen and prayer room of the erstwhile home of Birju Maharaj.
The museum is open all days of the week. There is no entry fee for visitors.
Location: 90, Gwynne Road, Wazirganj, Lucknow
