Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj passes away at 83

Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj has passed away, a member of his family said on Monday. He was 83.

Pandit Birju Maharaj was an exponent of the Kalka-Bindadin Gharana of Lucknow. Pandit Birju Maharaj received India's second-highest civil honour, the Padma Vobhushan, in 1984 for his contributions in the field of dance.

Singer Adnan Sami expressed his condolences on Twitter, saying, "We have lost an unparalleled institution in the field of the performing arts. He has influenced many generations through his genius."