An era of Kathak ends with passing away of legend Birju Maharaj; he was 83
By: Pallab Ghosh
Radiance News Service
Noted Kathak exponent Pandit Birju Maharaj passed away at his home in Delhi late Sunday after suffering a heart attack. He was 83.
Birju Maharaj, fondly called Panditji or Maharajji by her disciples across the globe, was the recipient of the country's second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan.
According to sources, the health of Birju Maharaj deteriorated on Sunday night while playing with his grandsons and he became unconscious. He was declared dead after being taken to the hospital. He had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment. Two of his disciples and his two granddaughters were by his side when he fell unconscious.
Birju Maharaj was an exponent of the Lucknow-Bindadin gharana of Kathak. He was the 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.
Birju Maharaj was not only an expert of Kathak but he was also a singer, and had command over Thumri, Dadra, Bhajan and Ghazal. He was a wonderful storyteller which is visible in his dance mudras that connected his audiences immediately.
Condolences poured in as news of the death of the Kathak maestro, who would have been 84 on February 4, came in.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his death is an "irreparable loss" to the entire art world.
"Deeply saddened by the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj ji, who gave Indian dance a special recognition world over. His passing is an irreparable loss to the entire art world. My condolences to his family and fans in this hour of grief," the prime minister said.
Social media is abuzz with tributes pouring in across the globe. Prime Minister, President, Vice-President, and other eminent people have expressed their grief on the passing away of Kathak legend Birju Maharaj.
His death has left an irreparable loss for Kathak. However, his legacy will be carried forward by his numerous disciples.