President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M.Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condoled the demise of veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor, saying it as a huge loss for the entertainment industry and that the nation lost a beloved son and film industry a gem.
Kapoor, who was diagnosed with leukemia in 2018, passed away at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai at around 8.45 a.m. on Thursday, his brother Randhir Kapoor said. He was 67.
Taking to Twitter, the President said, " An evergreen personality with an always smiling face, he was so full of life that it's difficult to believe that he is no more. A huge loss for the entertainment industry. Let us pray for his soul. Condolences to his family and friends."
Vice President Naidu said that the nation lost a beloved son and the film industry lost a gem.
"Saddened to learn about the demise of veteran Hindi film actor, Rishi Kapoor. The talented actor essayed many roles with aplomb and was popular for his romantic films. In his passing away, the nation lost a beloved son and film industry lost a gem," Naidu tweeted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi explained Kapoor as multifaceted, endearing and lively.
"...He was a powerhouse of talent. I will always recall our interactions, even on social media. He was passionate about films and India's progress. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and fans," Modi tweeted.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also condoled the sad demise of Kapoor.
In his message, Birla said: "My heartfelt homage to the untimely demise of legendary actor, director and producer Rishi Kapoor ji. His demise is a deep loss for Indian cinema. I pray for strength for his bereaved family. Om Shanti."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah dubbed Kapoor an an institution in himself.
"Pained to know about the passing away of legendary actor Rishi Kapoor ji. He was an institution in himself. Rishi ji's demise is an irreparable loss for Indian cinema. He will always be remembered for his exceptional acting skills. Condolences to his family and followers. Om Shanti," Shah tweeted.
( With inputs from IANS )