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Legendary Kathak Dancer And Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj DIES At 83; Heartfelt Tributes Pour In On Social Media

Pandit Birju Maharaj passes away at his residence in Delhi. As per his family members, he died after suffering a heart attack

Pallavi Soni

Mon Jan 17 2022, 10:29:27 8958 views
Renowned Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj breathed his last on Sunday, 16th January at his residence in Delhi. He was 83.  Reportedly, the Padma Vibhushan awardee, who was fondly referred to as Pandit-ji or Maharaj-ji by his disciples, died after suffering a heart attack, said his family members. His granddaughter Ragini Maharaj told PTI, “they were playing ‘antakshari’ after dinner when he suddenly felt ill. We took him to the hospital immediately but we could not save him.”

As per reports, Pandit Birju Maharaj had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment. He probably died of a cardiac arrest. Ragini was quoted by ANI saying, "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.”

Pandit Birju Maharaj’s grandson Swaransh Mishra took to his social media accounts to share the unfortunate news with the world. His statement read, “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.”

Soon after this, heartfelt tributes started pouring in for Pandit Birju Maharaj on social media, with fans, netizens, his well-wishers, and celebrities mourning the sad demise. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit tweeted, “Sad to know about the demise of kathak legend  & vocalist Padma Vibhushan Pandit #birjumaharaj ji after suffering a heart attack in Delhi. Its an end of an era .My heartfelt condolences to his family & near ones Om Shanti.”






While paying his respects, Bollywood singer Adnan Sami wrote, “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.”






Image Source: Instagram/Twitter

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