On Monday, Premier Minister Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Prime Minister,
mourned the loss of Kathak master Pandit Birju Maharaj.
According to his family members, the famous dancer died the day before on (Jan 16) at the
age of 83.
The loss of his life has left the nation shocked and deeply saddened many, including Prime
Minister Narendra Modi.
The Prime Minister has taken to Twitter to express his condolences to Pandit Birju Maharaj’s
passing with a touching message and a photo of the couple.
In Hindi, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji, who gave Indian
dance art a special recognition across the world.
His passing is an irreparable loss to the entire art world. My condolences to his family and
fans in this hour of grief. om Shanti!”
Pandit Birju Maharaj’s journey as an artist
Pandit Birju Maharaj was a direct descendant of the Maharaj family of Kathak dancers,
which comprises his two uncles, Shambhu Maharaj and Lachhu Maharaj, and his Guru
father, Acchan Maharaj.
He was taught dance from early on by his uncles and father.
Pandit Birju Maharaj’s debut major solo show was at Manmath Nath Ghosh festivities in
Bengal and, since then, there’s been no turning back.
Recognition and awards
The Kathak master has been awarded many prestigious awards, including India’s highest
civilian prize, the Padma Vibhushan.
Other awards he has received include Sangeet Natak Academy Award, Kalidas Samman,
Nritya Choodamani, Andhra Ratna, Nritya Vilas, and Adharshila Shikhar Samman Soviet
Land Nehru Award, Shiromani Samman, Rajiv Gandhi Peace Award.
Additionally, he holds an honorary doctorate in Banares Hindu University and Khairagarh
University.
Pandit Birju Maharaj, apart from his contribution to the classical dance form known as
Kathak He has also choreographed a few Bollywood songs, like “Aan Milo Sajana’ from
‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha.’
