PM Modi, President Kovind offer condolences after Karunanidhi's death
The nation demonstrated a state of grief after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief and five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu Muthuvel Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday in Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. He was 94.
The hospital made an official announcement informing that the former leader breathed his last at 6:10 pm.
Many leaders including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to pay respect and offer condolences to Karunanidhi.
श्री एम करुणानिधि के निधन के बारे में सुनकर दुख हुआ। "कलैनार" के नाम से लोकप्रिय वह एक सुदृढ़ विरासत छोड़ कर जा रहे हैं जिसकी बराबरी सार्वजनिक जीवन में कम मिलती है। उनके परिवार के प्रति और लाखों चाहने वालों के प्रति मैं अपनी शोक संवेदना व्यक्त करता हूँ – राष्ट्रपति कोविन्द
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018
PM Modi, in a series of tweets, wrote about Karunanidhi's achievements as a leader and multiple interactions the two had on many occasions.
Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018
We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. pic.twitter.com/jOZ3BOIZMj
Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu’s voice was effectively heard. pic.twitter.com/l7ypa1HJNC
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018
I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018
My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018
Veteran actor and politician Rajinikanth also expressed sorrow following Karunanidhi's demise. "Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul."
Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my #Kalaignar. I pray for his soul: Rajinikanth on #Karunanidhi (file pic) pic.twitter.com/R8ociRQSsN
— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018
Other prominent personalities also expressed their sorrow and gave condolences to the former Tamil Nadu CM's family.
#India mourns the passing away of the patriarch of DMK Muthuvel #Karunanidhi. His memory shall always remain etched in the minds of the people of Tamil Nadu. I convey my deepest condolence to his family members. @mkstalin @arivalayam pic.twitter.com/0FI6K54opW
— Rajat Sharma (@RajatSharmaLive) August 7, 2018
Condolences to the family and supporters of #Karunanidhi ji. May everyone maintain peace in Tamil Nadu.
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 7, 2018
I convey my deepest condolences to family members and admirers of #Karunanidhi ji on his demise. RIP
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) August 7, 2018
The man behind the rising son, the patriarch of #DMK, and a respected national leader @kalaignar89 is no more. He was the voice of the people of #TamilNadu. My deepest condolences to his family and to #Tamilians across the world. #Karunanidhi
— Vijay Kumar Singh (@Gen_VKSingh) August 7, 2018