Modi condoles actor Deven Verma's death

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday condoled the death of veteran actor and filmmaker Deven Verma, saying he was "admired by film lovers".

"Modi expressed grief on the passing away of noted actor Deven Verma. PM described him as a popular actor, admired by film lovers," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet.

Known for memorable performances in films like "Angoor" and "Khatta Meetha", the comedian died in Pune early Tuesday following a heart attack and kidney failure.

He is survived by his wife and critically acclaimed actress Rupa Ganguly, the younger daughter of legendary actor Ashok Kumar.

The actor, who became popular because of his comic timing, breathed his last in the city of his birth from where he graduated in politics and sociology before joining the film industry.

He also ventured into television and was seen in "Gubbare".

In his long career, he produced and directed movies such as "Besharam".