Legendary Kathak exponent Birju Maharaj dies at 84; PM Narendra Modi expresses deep condolence
The Kathak dancer, one of Indias best-known artistes, had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment.
Legendary Kathak dancer Birju Maharaj died at his home here in the early hours of Monday, his granddaughter said. He would have been 84 next month.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the passing away of legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj. The Prime Minister has also said that his passing is an irreparable loss to the entire art world.
Maharaj-ji, as he was popularly known, died surrounded by his family and disciples. They were playing 'antakshari' after dinner when he suddenly took ill, Ragini Maharaj told PTI.
The Kathak exponent, one of India's best-known artistes, had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment. He probably died of a cardiac arrest, his granddaughter said.
"We took him to hospital immediately but we could not save him," she said.
With Inputs from PTI
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