Legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj, died at midnight on the 17th of January, Sunday. The 83 years old passed away at his residence in Delhi, after suffering a heart attack.
Known as Pandit Ji or Maharaj Ji, Pandit Birju Maharaj was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan Award, India’s second highest civilian award and was one of the best artistes in India. Notably, Pandit Birju Maharaj also received the Kalidas Samman, Nritya Choodamani, Andhra Ratna, Nritya Vilas, Adharshila Shikhar Samman, Soviet Land Nehru Award, Shiromani Samman and Rajiv Gandhi Peace Award apart from an honorary doctorate from Banaras Hindu University.
Ragini Maharaj, Birju Maharaj’s granddaughter said, “He was under treatment for the past month. He had sudden breathlessness at around 12:15-12:30 am last night. We brought him to the hospital within 10 mins, but he passed away.” He was taken to Saket Hospital in New Delhi.
Birju Maharaj’s grandson announced the news of his demise and said, “Very sad to announce.. Pt birju maharaj ji.. my nana ji is no more. 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 January 2022.”
It is to be noted, the Legend Kathak Dancer was suffering from a Kidney ailment and was taking dialysis treatment.
Speaking of Birju Maharaj’s professional life, besides Kathak, he was also a singer par excellence, having command over Thumri, Dadra, Bhajan and Ghazal styles of recitation. He also played musical instruments, especially tabla. In addition, he was also a great storyteller, he interlaced his performances with incidents from his life, narrated to captivate the audience. He also worked in Bollywood movies to choreograph songs of Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) and Devdas (2002.)
Upon hearing of the demise of Birju Maharaj, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, celebrities of Indian cinema and others, expressed grief and condolences to the family of Birju Maharaj.
PM Narendra Modi said, “भारतीय नृत्य कला को विश्वभर में विशिष्ट पहचान दिलाने वाले पंडित बिरजू महाराज जी के निधन से अत्यंत दुख हुआ है। उनका जाना संपूर्ण कला जगत के लिए एक अपूरणीय क्षति है। शोक की इस घड़ी में मेरी संवेदनाएं उनके परिजनों और प्रशंसकों के साथ हैं। ओम शांति.”
Mr. Adnan Sami said, “Extremely saddened by the news about the passing away of Legendary Kathak Dancer- Pandit Birju Maharaj ji. 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,”
Filmmaker Mr. Ashoke Pandit said, “India has lost a jewel.”
The last rites of Mr. Pandit Birju Maharaj are likely to be held today, the 17th of January.
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