The Prime Minister has condoled the death of Shiv Sena leader Balasaheb Thackeray. For him the interests of Maharashtra were particularly important and he always strived to inculcate a sense of pride in the people of the State. He founded the Shiv Sena and built the party into a formidable force in the State politics with his strong leadership and extraordinary organizational skills. He was a consummate communicator whose stature in the politics of Maharashtra was unique. The passing away of Bala Saheb will be deeply felt by his family and followers. The Prime Minister appealed for calm and sobriety during this period of loss and mourning.