Delhi gang rape pained me, says poet Salman Khurshid

Pained at the brutal assault and gang rape of a young Delhi woman last year, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid has penned some poems to pay "tribute to her soul and to her parents".

The ghastly incident of Dec 16, 2012 shook the nation and led to widespread protests across the country, especially among youngsters.

"I felt the pain. I felt the alienation young people feel. This is a tribute to her soul and to her parents," Khurshid told IANS.

"The tragedy inspired me. I was dying to say this," said Khurshid.

NGOs Zakir Husain Trust and Ustaadgah organised a musical tribute to Indian women here Thursday evening.

The event featured video clips of Khurshid's tribute to her through his poems and rendition of his poetry in the form of songs, sung and composed by Ustaad Maa Zila Khan.

"I thank Zila, she sang so well," said Khurshid.

Pakistani singer Adnan Sami also paid tribute to the young woman by performing some of his popular songs.

"She will always remain in our hearts," said Sami.

Vice President Hamid Ansari attended the event along with his wife.

Delhi's Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung, Rajya Sabha member Amar Singh and Lok Sabha member Jaya Prada were also present.

"She fought death, we salute her guts," said Amar Singh.

The parents of the young woman were also present.