Patna, Aug 17 - Legendary Kathak exponent Pandit Birju Maharaj, who was here for a performance, said the difficulty to find a sponsor to popularise the Indian dance form pained him.

'I am worried and sad that it is difficult to get a sponsor for Kathak because it is a costly affair. Very few come forward to sponsor it,' Maharaj said here Sunday evening.

The veteran dancer-choreographer also pointed out that the popularity of classical dance had waned even in films.

'It pains me that even filmmakers are not taking the risk to include Kathak in their films. In the past, some films like 'Devdas' gave importance to Kathak,' he said.

He had choreographed and composed music for the song 'Kahe Chhed Mohe' in Sanjay Leela Bansali's film 'Devdas' that was picturised on Madhuri Dixit.

The 71-year-old dance guru, however, expressed happiness that the younger generation, particularly children, were showing keen interest to learn Kathak.

'It is a good and positive sign for Kathak,' said Maharaj, adding that he was teaching dance to nearly 250 children.