Birju Maharaj dies : Legendary Kathak dancer Birju Maharaj, one of India’s best known artistes, died at his home in the morning of January 17. He was 83. He had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment. Birju Maharaj disciples and family members were playing antakshari with him after dinner when he became ill, his grandson said.
Swaransh Mishra took to social media and wrote, “ 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."
Ragini Maharaj, Birju Maharaj's granddaughter, told ANI that he was under treatment for the past month but had sudden breathlessness at around 12:15-12:30 am the previous night. He was brought to the hospital within 10 mins but he passed away.
Maitreyee Pahari, who is one of India's most respected and renowned dancers and choreographers of traditional dances, told SheThePeople.TV, "The loss of a legend like Maharajji is perhaps the saddest day of my life. For me, the world of dance was Maharajji. Everything I am, is because of him. I have been extremely fortunate to have received his blessings for every step I took in the field of dance. He was such an alive being, his zest for life was unimaginable. He really wanted to live to create. It is an unfathomable loss for the music & dance world. May his soul rest in eternal peace".
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Maitreyee Pahari with Birju Maharaj
Bollywood actor Madhuri Dixit, one of his disciples, took to social media and wrote, "He has left behind grieving fans and students but also left a legacy we will all carry forward. Thank you Maharajji for everything you taught me in dance along with humility, elegance and grace."
Besides being a Kathak dancer, he was also a singer par excellence and had command over Thumri, Dadra, Bhajan and Ghazal. He was also a great drummer and used to play nearly all drums with ease and precision.
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