Google dedicating its doodle to noted tabla maestro Lachhu Maharaj on Tuesday and honoured the musician on his 110th birth anniversary. The doodle was created by guest artist Sajid Shaikh. Born in Varanasi on October 16, 1944, as Lakshmi Narayan Singh, Lachhu Maharaj was known for his proficiency in playing the tabla as part of the Benaras Gharana- one of the six most common styles of playing the tabla, which was developed nearly 200 years ago. Apart from his performances, he also featured in a plethora of films. He was even nominated for a Padma Shri. However, he refused to accept the accolade.

Lachhu Maharaj had played alongside several great tabla players of his times but it was his solo performances which are most remembered. According to Indian Express, Girija Devi, with whom he often collaborated, had said that Maharaj would play continuously for hours leaving his audience awestruck. Also, not many know that actor Govinda was related to him, and learned music from Maharaj during his childhood, as per the report.

After a prolonged illness, Lacchu Maharaj passed away in July 2016 in Varanasi at the age of 72 in Varanasi. He suffered a heart attack. He is survived by his wife and daughter, both of whom now live in Switzerland.

(With inputs from ANI)