Prime Minister of India - Dr. Manmohan Singh

PM condoles the passing away of Shri Khushwant Singh

"I am deeply saddened to learn that my dear friend, Sardar Khushwant Singh, is no more.

Throughout his life, Khushwant Singh worked hard to make it easier for the rest of us to understand and come to terms with the major social, economic and political changes that our country and the world witnessed. His writings, whether as a journalist, editor, historian, author or provocative raconteur, never failed to shed light on the human condition. That he did this unfailingly and candidly for more than half a century, while also managing to be humourous and witty, reflects on the enormous talent that he had for holding up a mirror to society. There was hardly an aspect of public life that escaped his attention and none that was not the better for it.

Khushwant's passing marks the end of an era and while I join you and countless others around the world in mourning his loss, I am sure that he himself would want us also to celebrate - to celebrate a rich and full life that was devoted to the pursuit of truth and justice. Indeed, Khushwant was a man the likes of whom we will not see again.

Gursharan joins me in conveying all members of the family our sincerest and heartfelt condolences. We pray for peace for the departed soul."