Legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj passes away
India's legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj died at his residence in Delhi after suffering a heart attack in the wee hours of Monday.
83-year-old Birju Maharaj was affectionately known as Pandit-Ji or Maharaj-Ji by his disciples and legions of followers and was one of India's best-known artists. He was a recipient of the country's second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan.
According to sources, Birju Maharaj was playing with his grandsons when his health deteriorated and he became unconscious. He was then rushed to the hospital where he was declared dead.
He had been on dialysis for a few days after being diagnosed with kidney disease.
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Birju Maharaj was a descendant of the Maharaj family of Kathak dancers comprised of his two uncles, Shambhu Maharaj and Lachhu Maharaj and his father and guru, Acchan Maharaj.
Pandit Birju Maharaj's grandson Swaransh Mishra shared the unfortunate news on his 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," wrote Swaransh on his Instagram account. Apart from being a renowned Kathak legend, Pandit Birju Maharaj was well-known for classical singing and had lent his voice to several films.
He was honoured with Padma Vibhushan in 1986 for his remarkable contribution.
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-PTC News 
"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," wrote Swaransh on his Instagram account.
Apart from being a renowned Kathak legend, Pandit Birju Maharaj was well-known for classical singing and had lent his voice to several films.
