With nearly three decades in Indian cinema, Madhuri Dixit remains an iconic and beloved star, celebrated for her dazzling performances, timeless beauty, and graceful dance moves. From her 1984 debut Abodh to her recent OTT release Maja Ma, her journey continues to inspire millions. On her birthday, here’s a look at some fascinating and lesser-known facts about the Dhak Dhak girl.
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1. Madhuri Wanted to Be a Microbiologist
Before Bollywood beckoned, Madhuri aspired to be a microbiologist. She pursued a BSc in microbiology at Sathaye College, Mumbai, but left her studies midway to follow her passion for acting.
2. She Is a Trained Kathak Dancer
Madhuri is a professionally trained Kathak dancer and even won a scholarship at the age of nine. She is the only Bollywood actress to have been choreographed by Pandit Birju Maharaj — in films like Devdas and Dedh Ishqiya.
3. Highest Paid Actress of Her Era
In the 1990s, Madhuri was reportedly the highest paid actress. For Hum Aapke Hain Koun, she earned ₹2.7 crores — more than her male co-star Salman Khan.
4. MF Husain’s Eternal Muse
Legendary painter MF Husain was so mesmerized by Madhuri that he watched Hum Aapke Hain Koun 67 times. He made his directorial debut Gaja Gamini with her and even booked an entire theatre for her comeback film Aaja Nachle.
5. She Has a Star Named After Her
A group of devoted fans officially named a star in the Orion constellation after Madhuri through the Star Foundation Network.
6. Declared a Personal Holiday by Fans
A diehard fan from Jamshedpur once launched a calendar marking Madhuri’s birthday as a public holiday and appealed to the government for official recognition.
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7. Madhuri Turned Down Major Hollywood Offers
Few know that Madhuri reportedly received offers from Hollywood during her peak but turned them down due to language barriers and her preference to stay rooted in Indian cinema.
8. She Owns a Dance Academy
Madhuri co-founded an online dance platform called Dance With Madhuri, where fans and dance lovers can learn from her and top choreographers.