President, PM, Modi condole Khushwant Singh's demise

New Delhi, Mar 20: President

, Prime Minister

and BJP's prime ministerial candidate

on Thursday led the nation in paying tributes to noted author and journalist

, who passed away today.

Prime Minister called him a "gifted author, candid commentator and a dear friend who lived a truly creative life."

President Pranab Mukherjee Thursday expressed sadness at the death of noted writer Khushwant Singh and said his works had delighted generations of readers.

"I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of Khushwant Singh," the president said in a message to Rahul Singh, the writer's son.

"A prolific writer who made his mark in literature as well as in journalism, Khushwant Singh will be remembered for his sharp insight and unique wit, as well as sense of humour," Mukherjee said.

The President also said Singh's writings delighted generations of readers and he was conferred several awards and national honours, including the Padma Vibhushan.

"His contribution to the nation as a member of parliament was also noteworthy. A fearless intellectual and exceptional man, his sad demise leaves a vacuum difficult to fill," he said.

"I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and his countless fans and admirers. I pray for peace of the departed soul."

BJP's prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi also offered his condolences saying, "My condolences on the passing away of noted author."

Khushwant Singh, who was ill and had faded from public life, passed away aged 99 "very, very peacefully", his son Rahul Singh, also a journalist said on his demise.

OneIndia News

(With agency inputs)