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Died 28 July 2016, Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Varanasi | ||
Lakshmi Narayan Singh (16 October 1944 – 28 July 2016), known professionally as Lachhu Maharaj, was an Indian tabla player of Benaras gharana.
Maharaj was born on 16 October 1944 to Vausdev Narayan Singh. His sister Nirmala was the mother of actor Govinda. He married a French woman Teena, and they had a daughter, Narayani.
Along with his professional tabla performances all over the world, he was featured in films. He was nominated for the Padma Shri, but refused to accept it. He felt the appreciation of his audience was enough of an honour.
Death
Maharaj died in Varanasi on 28 July 2016, at the age of 72 years. He was cremated on Manikarnika Ghat in the city on 29 July 2016.
Condolences were received from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Politician Sonia Gandhi condoled his death and said "His contributions to classical as well as the popular film genre would forever inspire artistes in the years to come."
Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav, said in his condolence message that 'Lacchu Maharaj popularized tabla playing internationally with his talented performances, and his death was a huge loss'.
Classical singer Girija Devi said it was an irreparable loss, and Maharaj knew the nuances of tabla like no other artist.