Kathak legend Birju Maharaj passes away at 83: Classical dance exponents from Hyderabad pay tribute

Maharaj ji’s mesmerising performances will continue to inspire us — Deepika Reddy, Kuchipudi dancer
I am deeply saddened and grieved at the irreparable loss of the King of Kathak, Pandit Birju Maharajji. Despite his monumental accomplishments, he was humble beyond all expectations. I deem it my good fortune that he invited me to choreograph and perform the Kuchipudi segment in his production, ‘Ritu Samhar’.I observed and learnt so much from him during our tours to Korea, Thailand, and Germany. He would recount anecdotes about his international tours in his younger days and said that language was a huge communication barrier that he surmounted by using mudras (hand gestures) and expressions. Panditji showered so much affection on my students and me. He would endearingly take selfies with us and even click our pictures on his camera. One of my fondest memories is performing while Maharajji was playing the tabla. His childlike affection towards me is etched in my mind. His mesmerising performances and magnificent legacy will remain for all artistes to cherish and will continue to inspire us.
Maharaj ji paved a fresh path in Kathak, he will live as long as art lives— Raghav Raj Bhatt, disciple of Pt Birju Maharaj
I spoke to Maharajji last Saturday. I am devastated to know that he is no more. He was more than a father figure to me. I spent over 20 hours a day with him while I was training under him. We shared a close bond. Even though he is no more, I feel he is with me all the time. Maharaj paved a fresh path in Kathak. So much so, even those who never directly learnt from him imbibed his style. He was the greatest in his gharana. He was a versatile artist with many artistic skills — guru, dancer, singer, percussionist, musician, choreographer, composer, and poet. I worked with him on many experimental projects, both in India and abroad. Being a painter, I even did set designs for his shows. Once you are with Maharajji, you have to do everything. I believe he won’t leave me, and I will not leave him. He is my asset. He will live as long as art lives.