Ananth Kumar condoles passing away of Kalam, says 'India lost a great visionary'

Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers Ananth Kumar expressed sorrow over the sudden demise of former president APJ Abdul Kalam, saying India has lost a great visionary who ignited the minds of many with his grand intellect.

"With the passing away of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, India has lost a great visionary who ignited the minds of many with his grand intellect. He also had the utmost compassion for and touched every Indian alike, young and old, rich and poor, haves and have-nots. He was the ideal president, scientist and thinker," said Kumar.

Kumar also cherished many 'inspiring moments' spent with Kalam.

"He was very dear to every Indian's heart, and it is a great personal loss for me as I had the honour and good fortune to spend many inspiring moments with him. Every interaction with him left me in awe of this extraordinary man," he said.

"I pray to the Almighty to bestow peace to this great soul Dr. Kalam, who has left a void in every Indian's life," he added.

Kalam's mortal remains have been flown from Guwahati to Delhi.

The former president, who passed away at the age of 84 yesterday, collapsed during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management. He was in a critical condition and had been admitted to the city's Bethany Hospital.

Kalam served as the 11th President on India from 2002 to 2007.