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Mirza Wajid Ali Shah (30 July 1822 – 1 September 1887) was the eleventh and last King of Awadh, reigning from 13 February 1847 to 11 February 1856. He is widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the revival and development of Indian classical dance, particularly Kathak. A poet, playwright, and musician, Wajid Ali Shah was not merely a patron of the arts but…
Journey Timeline
1822
Born Mirza Wajid Ali Shah — Born on July 30, 1822.
1847
Ascended the throne of Awadh — Became the eleventh King of Awadh on February 13, 1847.
Learned Kathak — Received training from Guru Thakur Prasad and Durga Prasad.
Declared Kathak as official court dance — Elevated the status of Kathak during his reign.
Choreographed Rahas dance dramas — Created and performed in 36 types of Rahas, based on Kathak.
Authored "Bani" — Documented the intricacies of Rahas performances.
Composed music and thumris — Wrote over 40 works, including thumris under the pen name "Akhtarpiya," and new ragas.
Fostered Lucknow Gharana of Kathak — Under his patronage, the Lucknow style of Kathak prospered.
1856
Dethroned and exiled — Deposed by the British on February 11, 1856, and moved to Calcutta.
1887
Passed away — Died on September 1, 1887.
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Media Coverage
- A true patron of Kathak – Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
Joy of Dancing
- Kathak: The Dance of Storytellers
Live History India
- Wajid Ali Shah: The Maestro of Dance Dramas
Enroute Indian History
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