Shashi Kapoor no more: PM Modi, President Kovind lead tribute for veteran actor

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind paid tribute at the demise of the veteran Bollywood superstar Shashi Kapoor, who passed away on Monday evening.

President Kovind took to Twitter saying, "Sorry to hear of the demise of Shashi Kapoor, well-known actor, with a repertoire of Indian and international films. His support for meaningful cinema as a producer and pivotal role in the theatre movement in India too are cherished. Condolences to his family."

Shashi Kapoor's versatility could be seen in his movies as well as in theatre, which he promoted with great passion. His brilliant acting will be remembered for generations to come. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2017

Sorry to hear of the demise of Shashi Kapoor, well-known actor, with a repertoire of Indian and international films. His support for meaningful cinema as a producer and pivotal role in the theatre movement in India too are cherished. Condolences to his family #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 4, 2017

Kapoor was 79-year-old. The thespian's death has left the industry people and fans in a state of shock.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed condolence on the veteran actor's demise. "With his impressive talent and inimitable mannerism actor Shashi Kapoor charmed a generation of Indians. He was a fine actor and a wonderful human being. Saddened to learn of his demise. May his soul rest in peace," read Singh's tweet.

With his impressive talent and inimitable mannerism actor Shashi Kapoor charmed a generation of Indians. He was a fine actor and a wonderful human being. Saddened to learn of his demise. May his soul rest in peace. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 4, 2017

Others including Union Minister Smriti Irani, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also took to Twitter to pay tribute to the veteran superstar.

Saddened by the demise of legendary actor Shashi Kapoor ji. His contribution to Indian Cinema is monumental. Shashi ji’s passing away marks the end of an era. My deepest condolences to his loved ones, colleagues and fans. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti! — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) December 4, 2017

We are deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor #ShashiKapoor.
The Deewaar (1975) star was also memorable in Merchant-Ivory productions The Householder (1963) and Shakespeare Wallah (1965).
He worked as a child actor in Raj Kapoor films Aag (1948) and Awaara (1951). pic.twitter.com/DakQQuFIvB — NFAI (@NFAIOfficial) December 4, 2017

A legend has passed away. Shashi Kapoor will remain in our hearts forever. My condolences to his loved ones and all his fans. pic.twitter.com/OmLvtvYZtb — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) December 4, 2017

Sad to hear about noted actor, producer #ShashiKapoor ji‘s demise.
His contribution in Hindi film industry will be remembered forever.
My deepest condolences to his family, friends and millions of fans. — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) December 4, 2017

Actor Mohit Marwah took to Twitter and shared the unfortunate news. He wrote: “My favourite shashi kapoor rests in peace today will be remembered always.”

The actor was reportedly admitted to Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital where he breathed his last. The legendary star was under constant medical supervision and was battling health-related issues.