One of Bollywood’s most celebrated dance choreographers Saroj Khan has died at the age of 71. 

She died of a cardiac arrest in hospital in Mumbai city, her nephew Manish Jagwani told the PTI news agency.

Last month she was taken to hospital after complaining she felt breathless but tested negative for Covid-19. 

Her career stretched over four decades and she choreographed more than 2,000 songs. 

In the 1950s she was a back-up dancer and appeared in films like Bimal Roy's Madhumati.

She then made the switch to choreography and rose to fame after working in the film Geeta Mera Naam.

In the 1980s she worked alongside leading stars like Madhuri Dixit and Sridevi Kapoor.

The three-time National Award winner also choreographed Bollywood star Sridevi in the iconic song Hawa Hawai in the movie Mr India. 

She has three children - Sukyna, Hina and Hamid and was married to Sardar Roshan Khan.

Many in the industry have paid tribute to the star, including director Kunal Kohl, who said: "She stood up for the rights of people.

"Never bothered who was a star or not. She said her bit Unadulterated & from the heart. 

“Bought biryani on every song and fed the whole crew so lovingly. We gossiped. We worked. Thank you for the memories #masterji #SarojKhan love you always.”

Actor Akshay Kumar wrote: “Woke up to the sad news that legendary choreographer #SarojKhan ji is no more. She made dance look easy almost like anybody can dance, a huge loss for the industry. May her soul rest in peace.”

Actor Sidharth Shukla said: “You were truly one of the reasons dance became an integral part of every household.. your legacy will continue to live on forever.. rest in peace #SarojKhan.”