For the years that have gone by and the years that are yet to come, Pandit Birju Maharaj will be synonymous with Kathak. The Padma Vibhushan awardee breathed his last and passed away at the age of 83, leaving a glorious legacy behind. According to The Indian Express, he suffered from kidney ailments and had been on dialysis for some months. He also contracted Covid a few days ago and suffered a heart attack this morning.
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Many celebrities took to social media to shower their condolences and mourn the loss of a legend. Actors like Madhuri Dixit, Alia Bhatt, and others shared fond memories of having worked with Pandit Birju Maharaj. Posting a picture with him, here’s what Madhuri wrote:
“He was a legend but had a child-like innocence. He was my guru but also my friend. He taught me the intricacies of dance and Abhinay but never failed to make me laugh at his funny anecdotes. 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.”
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Alia Bhatt too expressed her sorrow and wrote:
“Had the honour and privilege of spending three full days with Pandit Birju Maharaj in 2018 while I was prepping for Ghar More Pardesiya. I will never forget all that he has taught me. It was possibly one of the most creative and fulfilling experiences that I have ever had. A legend who has inspired several and will always continue to do so through his art. Truly breaks my heart to write this post today. May his soul rest in peace.”
Hema Malini, who has been a dancer herself, wrote:
“The nation mourns the passing of a true legend, Shri Birju Maharaj, Kathak exponent par excellence. His ghungroos were on his ankles till he breathed his last. I always admired and respected him as a giant of the medium of Kathak & will miss his presence on the firmament of dance.”
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Her daughter Esha Deol too offered her condolences.
From Adnan Sami to Sachin Tendulkar, here are a couple of other artists and sportspersons who expressed their grief:
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.🙏🖤#BirjuMaharaj pic.twitter.com/YpJZEeuFjH— Adnan Sami (@AdnanSamiLive) January 16, 2022
बिरजु महाराज…ओम् शांति!🙏🌺🙏 #BirjuMaharaj #Kathak pic.twitter.com/2se5620LSq
— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) January 17, 2022
Pandit Birju Maharaj took Kathak from India to the world & inspired several people to take up the art.
I am saddened to hear about his demise. He will continue to live through his art & artists inspired by him. Deepest condolences to his family & Kathak lovers across the world. pic.twitter.com/bvjJ3gQ3uM
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 17, 2022
The legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj leaves behind a void that can never be filled. Thank you for your huge contribution to the world of Dance and inspiring so many like me with your art. You will be missed. Rest in peace Panditji, condolences to the family and friends. pic.twitter.com/JhnzVGq3VG
— Yami Gautam Dhar (@yamigautam) January 17, 2022
A legendary artist and a gem in the Kathak World. The legacy of Pandit Birju Maharaj ji shall keep influencing many in the years to come.
May his soul rest in peace 🙏 pic.twitter.com/VZ8Sy5DB1F— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) January 17, 2022
Pandit Birju Maharaj was a legend and an absolute wonder to watch… The world lost something priceless today. Rest In Peace, my deepest condolences to his family.#birjumaharaj pic.twitter.com/O3cBtRIGGa
— Kajol (@itsKajolD) January 17, 2022
My mum would say it will be your life’s great privilege,if you get to see Pandit Birju Maharaj perform live. Never happened & that is now a great regret. What a loss. #PanditBirjuMaharaj
— Masaba (@MasabaG) January 17, 2022
Deeply saddened to hear of the demise of Kathak maestro & Padma Vibhushan recipient Pandit Birju Maharaj ji.
His contribution to Indian culture & performing arts will be remembered eternally.
I pray for the strength of the family & well-wishers 🙏🏻 Om Shanti #BirjuMaharaj
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) January 17, 2022
Our country has truly suffered a great loss today. Rest in peace, legend.