India’s legendary dancer passes away
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in
Kathak legend, 83 years old Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj died at his home in Delhi in the early hours of Monday. As per available information he suffered a heart attack.
A recipient of the country’s second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan, he was born Brij Mohan Nath Mishra on February 4, 1937, in a well-known family of Kathak dancers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the family and fans of the Kathak legend. On Twitter, Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj ji, who gave Indian dance forms a special recognition across the world. His passing is an irreparable loss to the entire world of art. My condolences to his family and fans in this hour of grief.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said “Received the sad news of the demise of Kathak maestro Shri Birju Maharaj. My condolences to his family, friends and fans. His contribution to the field of Indian classical dance is unparalleled and he will be remembered for it.”
Union minister Rajnath Singh said “Pandit Birju ji Maharaj was a doyen of India’s art and culture. He popularised the Lucknow gharana of Kathak dance form around the world.Deeply pained by his demise. His passing away is a monumental loss to the world of performing arts. Condolences to his family and admirers.”
Government of India tweeted :End of an era. The Legendary Kathak Dancer and Padma Vibhushan, Pandit #BirjuMaharaj has passed away. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
India’s legendary dancer passes away. He was a descendant of the Maharaj family of Kathak dancers, which includes his two uncles, Shambhu Maharaj and Lachhu Maharaj, and his father and guru, Acchan Maharaj. He also practised Hindustani classical music and was a vocalist.
January 17,2022
