Veteran choreographer Shiva Shankar passes away due to COVID-19 complications – Times of India

Shiva Shankar, one of South India’s most prominent choreographers, has died at the age of 72. He had an illustrious career that stretched four decades and choreographed some of Tollywood’s most iconic and popular songs. His career took off in the late mid-1970s when he worked on a slew of hit numbers with leading stars like Chiranjeevi, Vijayakanth and Sarathkumar.

A few days ago, Shiva Sankar Master and his elder son Vijay Shivashankar tested positive of the novel coronavirus. Shiva Sankar was admitted to a private hospital in Hyderabad for treatment. Reportedly, his health condition worsened after which he was shifted to the ICU (Intensive Care Unit). However, on November 28 in the evening he breathed his last.

Born on December 7, 1948, in Chennai, his introduction into the film industry was an assistant choreographer. In the 1990s, he became a dance choreographer for films like ‘Kuruvikoodu,’ ‘Saattai Illatha Pambaram’ and ‘Mann Vasanai.’ Shiva Sankar choreographed Chiranjeevi in a song from the 1983 blockbuster hit ‘Khaidi,’ kicking off his career as a dance director to reckoned with. And with that, he became the most sought-after choreographer in Tollywood for several decades.

Legendary Choreographer #ShivaShankar Master Garu Passed Away Rest In Peace https://t.co/kaH68eJKcN

— AndhraNTRRRFC (@AndhraNTRFC) 1638112581000

In 2011, he received the National Award for the song ”Dheera Dheera” from Ram Charan’s ‘Magadheera’ directed by SS Rajamouli. He choreographed more than 800 songs, created innumerable hits, won a dozen prestigious awards and had millions of fans in India and globally. He also acted in several Tamil and Telugu serials. He also appeared in several films. She appeared as a judge on one of the most popular reality TV dance shows.

As the news of his death emerged, many in the film industry took to social media to condole his death and share their tributes.

Director SS Rajamouli said on Twitter: ”Sad to know that reknowned choreographer Shiva Shankar Master garu has passed away. Working with him for Magadheera was a memorable experience. May his soul rest in peace. Condolences to his family.”

Sad to know that reknowned choreographer Shiva Shankar Master garu has passed away. Working with him for Magadheera… https://t.co/Nhlx1YrH4M

— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) 1638114809000

Actress Aishwarya Rajesh wrote, ”Deeply saddened to learn of the demise of renowned choreographer #ShivaShankarMaster. A wonderful soul, he was always a pillar of support to me. My deepest condolences to his friends and family. May God grant them the strength to bear this huge loss!”

Deeply saddened to learn of the demise of renowned choreographer #ShivaShankarMaster. A wonderful soul, he was al… https://t.co/gI1mJRm1qr

— aishwarya rajesh (@aishu_dil) 1638115271000

Sonu Sood expressed his condolences. He tweeted: ”Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Shiv Shankar masterji. Tried our best to save him but God had different plans. Will always miss you masterji. May almighty give strength to the family to bear this loss. Cinema will always miss u sir.”

Heartbroken to hear about the demise of Shiv Shankar masterji. Tried our best to save him but God had different pla… https://t.co/xSLJEmx2RY

— sonu sood (@SonuSood) 1638111426000

Shiva Sankar Master’s last rites will take place at Hyderabad’s Maha Prasthanam at 2pm tomorrow.