Jayalalithaa emerged as an icon in Indian politics: Rajnath Singh

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Condoling the demise of late Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalithaa, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said the former had emerged as an icon in Indian politics.

Talking to the media he said, "Jayalalithaa was a great leader. She had emerged as an icon in Indian politics. I condole the bereaved. It is definitely a big loss."

The sad demise of Jayalalithaa, addressed as Amma, last night at 11:30 pm at Apollo Hospital in Chennai has left the entire nation in grief and pain!

Meanwhile, tributes are being paid to Jayalalithaa at Rajaji Hall in Chennai where her mortal remains have been kept.

Preparations are currently underway at MGR Memorial at Marina beach, Chennai, for her last rites ceremony.

President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are travelling to Chennai to pay their last respects to the departed soul.

As soon as the announcement was made, condolence and tributes for the veteran actor-turned-politician started pouring in, not only from politicians and supporters, but also from the entire film fraternity.

From Thalaiva Rajinikath to Shehenshah Amitabh Bachchan to Badshah Shah Rukh Khan, all took to their respective Twitter handles to pay tribute to the late "bold leader."

"Not only Tamil Nadu, but the entire India has lost a bold leader. I pray the Almighty for the peace of soul to our honourable Chief Minister," tweeted Rajinikanth.

"Deeply grieved at the passing of Jayalalita ji... a strong woman... Jayalalitha ji (is) the only chief minister of a state that celebrated 100 years of Indian Cinema .. from all regions .. most admirable," wrote Big-B.

SRK shared, "Sad to hear of the passing away of Jayalalithaaji.May her soul rest in peace."

Amma will be cremated will full state honours at Marina beach today at 4:30 pm.

Meanwhile, a seven-day state mourning has been declared from today morning to mourn the death of the beloved five-time chief minister and a three-day holiday has also been announced for educational institutions in Tamil Nadu. The Central Government has also declared one-day mourning today.