Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Narendra Modi condole death of ex-Prez Pranab Mukherjee

"Sad to hear that former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee is no more. His demise is passing of an era. A colossus in public life, he served Mother India with the spirit of a sage. The nation mourns losing one of its worthiest sons. Condolences to his family, friends & all citizens," President Kovind tweeted.

Indian PM Narendra Modi said the country grieves the death of the leader.

"India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society," Modi tweeted.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said: "Deeply saddened by the passing away of former President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee. The country has lost an elder statesman in his death. He rose from humble beginnings to occupy the country’s highest constitutional position through hard work, discipline and dedication."

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condoled: "With great sadness, the nation receives the news of the unfortunate demise of our former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee.  I join the country in paying homage to him.  My deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends."

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee posted: "It is with deep sorrow I write this. Bharat Ratna Pranab Mukherjee has left us. An era has ended. For decades he was a father figure. From my first win as MP, to being my senior Cabinet colleague, to his becoming President while I was CM."

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said: "Mukherjee was like a guide to RSS and affectionate towards us; his death irreparable loss to Sangh."

Yoga guru Ramdev said: "I developed a deep personal bond with Pranab Mukherjee since he received me at the airport when I was to start a movement against black money, corruption & for system change in 2011 which continued till date. His demise is great damage to the nation and politics."

Former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, who remained the ceremonial head of the country from 2012-2017 after dominating the political scene as a top Congress leader for nearly five decades, died on Monday, his son confirmed. A recipient of India's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna, he was 84.

His son Abhijit tweeted: "With a Heavy Heart , this is to inform you that my father Shri #PranabMukherjee has just passed away inspite of the best efforts of Doctors of RR Hospital & prayers ,duas & prarthanas from  people throughout India ! I thank all of You."