Deve Gowda condoles K K Birla's death

New Delhi, Sep 1 (UNI) Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) President H D Deve Gowda today condoled the death of noted industrialist and former Rajya Sabha Member Krishna Kumar Birla.

Expressing grief over his demise, Mr Gowda said : ''He was a multi-faceted personality reflecting not just the huge industrial empire he built and successfully managed despite all odds, but also a passion for encouraging education, literature, art and culture. He loved Philanthropy and had deep faith in religion and was actively involved as a Parliamentarian.'' ''I shared an excellent personal rapport with him and with his demise, the nation has lost one of its most illustrious sons'', Mr Gowda said.

He said Birla was a staunch believer in the freedom of press and he never interfered in the editorial matters of his media ventures, despite his own political loyalties.

''Birla was a firm believer in the industry's responsibility towards society and the nation at large. The late industrialist was an epitome of humility and simplicity, '' the JD(S) president said about the Birla, who breathed his last on Saturday at the age of 90.

Mr Gowda added that despite his strong religious beliefs and friendly ties with leaders cutting across the political spectrum, the legendary industrialist remained committed to the secular values.

''The nation shall remain grateful to him for his services and contributions. There cannot be a more befitting tribute to such a great soul if our young entrepreneurs and industrialists imbibe the values of philanthropy, charity and corporate social responsibility which he preached and practiced till his last breath, he said.

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