Kalam was scholar statesman, great scientific mind: Sonia

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Monday expressed her "deepest condolences" at the death of former president A.P.J Abdul Kalam, describing him as "one of the greatest scientific minds and a scholar statesman".

Party vice president Rahul Gandhi also condoled Kalam's death.

In her message, Sonia Gandhi said Kalam was one of India's iconic leaders, and a true patriot, who inspired millions of young and old alike by his works and deeds.

"His contribution to our polity will remain unparalleled. Dr. Kalam inspired millions in the country and abroad and he even breathed his last while infusing a new zeal to young Indians in the course of his last address to IIM students," she said.

Rahul Gandhi said Kalam was a man of many parts -- a scientist, an inventor, a visionary thinker and a teacher.

"Through his life and work, he ignited the minds of young people. As president, he won over the hearts and minds of an entire nation with his warmth and wisdom.

"He will be missed dearly and remembered fondly by every Indian," Rahul Gandhi said.

Kalam, who won popular acclaim as India's president from 2002 to 2007, died on Monday evening after collapsing during a lecture at the IIM-Shillong.