Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj dies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourns the loss

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed anguish over the sudden death of Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj.

In his tweet, Modi acknowledged Pandit Birju Maharaj's remarkable contribution to the Indian dance form.

"Extremely saddened after learning about the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj, who gave Indian art a special recognition across the globe. It's an irreparable loss to the entire art world. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti," he tweeted.

Maharaj-ji, as he was popularly known, died surrounded by his family on Monday after suffering breathlessness. He was 83 .

"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," a note shared by his family read.

Reportedly, the Kathak exponent had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under treatment for the past one month. (ANI)