Kathak legend Pandit Birju Maharaj has died at the age of 83. His relatives confirmed his death to ANI. Reportedly, Pandit Birju Maharaj had suffered a heart attack in the wee hours of Monday. Pandit Birju Maharaj’s grandson Swaransh Mishra also confirmed the news on social media.
“With profound grief and sorrow we inform the sad and untimely demise of our most beloved member of the family, Pt. Birju Maharaj Ji. The noble soul left for his heavenly abode on 17th Jan 2022. Pray for the departed soul.. Grief-stricken: Maharaj family,” a note read on Swaransh’s Instagram account.
Apart from being a renowned Kathak dancer, Pandit Birju Maharaj was also a well-known classical singer and had lent his voice to several films. In his glorious career, he has won several accolades. He was honoured with the country’s second highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan, in 1986.
As the news of Kathak maestro’s death broke, singer Adnan Sami expressed his heartfelt condolences.
Extremely saddened by the news about the passing away of Legendary Kathak Dancer- Pandit Birju Maharaj ji.
— Adnan Sami (@AdnanSamiLive) January 16, 2022
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 pic.twitter.com/YpJZEeuFjH
Taking to Twitter, he wrote, “Extremely saddened by the news about the passing away of Legendary Kathak Dancer- Pandit Birju Maharaj ji.” Sami described Pandit Birju Maharaj as “an unparalleled institution.”
“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,” he added.
