New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the passing away of veteran Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar saying, "He will be remembered as a cinematic legend."
Taking to his official Twitter account on Wednesday morning, the Prime Minister said, "Dilip Kumar Ji will be remembered as a cinematic legend. He was blessed with unparalleled brilliance, due to which audiences across generations were enthralled. His passing away is a loss to our cultural world. Condolences to his family, friends and innumerable admirers. RIP."
The legendary actor, who was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Hinduja Hospital on June 29 after reportedly complaining of breathlessness, breathed his last on Wednesday morning at about 7:30 AM.
The sad news of Dilip Kumar's demise was confirmed by his family friend Faisal Farooqui on the legendary actor's official twitter handle. Dr Faisal tweeted: With a heavy heart and profound grief, I announce the passing away of our beloved Dilip Saab, few minutes ago. We are from God and to Him we return. - Faisal Farooqui.
PM Modi also spoke to Saira Banu on telephone and offered condolences. The call lasted for about 10 minutes.
Upon learning the sudden development, several ministers and political leaders expressed grief and extended condolences to his family and friends. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi mourned Dilip Kumar's demise saying, "His extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema will be remembered for generations to come."
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed grief on veteran actor's demise. "His demise is monumental loss to the Indian cinema," the union minister said.