Pandit Birju Maharaj, Legendary Kathak Dancer, Dies at the age of 83

Birju Maharaj passed away in Delhi early on Monday. He was to turn 84 next month. In a tweet, Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji, who has given Indian dance art a unique recognition across the world. He was awarded with Padma Vibhushan " the second highest civilian award".

Birju Maharaj was playing with his grandsons on Sunday night where all of a sudden his health deteriorated . He had breathlessness at around 12:00 yesterday.

In a tweet, Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji, who has given Indian dance a unique identity across the globe. His passing is an irreparable loss to the entire art world. My condolences to his family and fans in this hour of grief."