Legendary Kathak Dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj passes away at 83

Legendary Kathak Dancer Birju Maharaj, fondly called Pandit-ji or Maharaj-ji by his disciples is no more. The Kathak maestro breathed his last at his home in the wee hours of

Legendary Kathak Dancer Birju Maharaj, fondly called Pandit-ji or Maharaj-ji by his disciples is no more.

The Kathak maestro breathed his last at his home in the wee hours of Monday after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 83.

As per reports, Maharajji was reportedly playing with his grandsons when his health unexpectedly deteriorated, following which he was rushed to the hospital. He later died of a heart attack.

Notably, he was diagnosed with kidney disease a few days ago and was on dialysis.

BirjuMaharaj, who belongs to Lucknow Gharana, was born on 4 February 1937. Apart from being a Kathak dancer, he was also a classical singer.

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The internationally acclaimed dancer was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1986. Apart from this, he also received Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and Kalidas Samman.

The Banaras Hindu University and Khairagarh University also conferred honorary doctorates on BirjuMaharaj.

Popularly known as Pandit Birju Maharaj, he also choreographed dance moves for films like Devdas, DedhIshqiya, UmraoJaan and Baji Rao Mastani to name a few.

Meanwhile, fans, friends, and public figures from the entertainment industry have taken to Twitter to convey their condolences for Maharajji’s death.

Singer Adnan Sami took to Twitter and wrote, “Extremely saddened by the news about the passing away of Legendary Kathak Dancer- PanditBirjuMaharajji. We have lost an unparalleled institution in the field of the performing arts. He has influenced many generations through his genius. May he rest in peace.#BirjuMaharaj,”

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb also expressed his heartfelt condolence for the legendary dancer.

“Extremely saddened by the passing away of the Kathak Samrat, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharajji. His passing is an irreparable loss to the art world. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” the Chief Minister tweeted.

 

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