Legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj dies at 83. Twitter pays tribute

After the news of the maestro fondly known as 'Maharaj ji' spread on Twitter, netizens flooded the micro-blogging site with tributes to the Kathak legend.

Padma Vibhushan awardee and legendary Kathak dancer Pandit Birju Maharaj died of a heart attack early on Monday morning. He was 83. Pandit Birju Maharaj was an exponent of the Kalka-Bindadin Gharana of Lucknow. The Kathak maestro had been suffering from a kidney ailment and was under dialysis treatment. He passed away surrounded by his family and disciples. ! pic.twitter.com/PtqDkoe8kd , ! The demise of legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj marks the end of an era. It leaves a deep void in the Indian music and cultural space. He became an icon, making unparalleled contribution to popularise Kathak globally. Condolences to his family and admirers. Saddened to learn about the demise of #BirjuMaharaj.He was indeed one of the handful maestros who had equal influence in classical as well as popular cultures. His demise is a big loss. pic.twitter.com/2J558hr7Bq Humble tribute to #Kathak Shamrat and classical singer #BirjuMaharajHis contribution to Indian dance is incomparable. pic.twitter.com/OARkefKerQ 0 : #birjumaharaj pic.twitter.com/fLN88c163x Passing away of Legendary Kathak Maestro & #PadmaVibhushan Pandit #birjumaharaj Ji is a great loss to the Nation.Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family. !#birjumaharaj pic.twitter.com/Mc2Jfx9XYz The person behind these two legendary songs, Pandit #BirjuMaharaj is no more.May his soul Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/xauKR2Hqcc

After the news of the maestro fondly known as 'Maharaj ji' spread on Twitter, netizens flooded the micro-blogging site with tributes to the Kathak legend. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a tweet of condolence saying that his death was 'an irreparable loss to the entire art world."