Pandit Birju Maharaj's death has left PM Modi 'deeply saddened,' and he has described it as a "irreparable loss"

Pandit Birju Maharaj, a Kathak maestro, died tragically on Monday, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences. According to his relatives, the legendary dancer died on Sunday (Jan 16) at the age of 83. His death stunned the country and devastated many people, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

With a touching letter and a photo of the two, the honourable PM took to Twitter to express his condolences for Pandit Birju Maharaj's demise.

He wrote 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 dance career:

Pandit Birju Maharaj was a direct descendent of the Kathak dancers Maharaj family, which included his two uncles, Shambhu Maharaj and Lachhu Maharaj, as well as his father and master, Acchan Maharaj.

His father and uncles began training him in the dancing genre when he was quite small.

Pandit Birju Maharaj's first major solo performance was during Manmath Nath Ghosh's Bengal festivities, and he hasn't looked back since.

Recognition and awards:

Many important accolades have been bestowed to the Kathak maestro, including India's second-highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan.

Sangeet Natak Academy Award, Kalidas Samman, Nritya Choodamani, Andhra Ratna, Nritya Vilas, Adharshila Shikhar Samman, Soviet Land Nehru Award, Shiromani Samman, Rajiv Gandhi Peace Award are among the other honours bestowed upon him.

Banares Hindu University and Khairagarh University have both awarded him honorary doctorates.

Apart from his contributions to Kathak as a classical dance form, Pandit Birju Maharaj has also choreographed Bollywood songs such as 'Aan Milo Sajana' from 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha.'