Indian-Americans mourn death of former President APJ Abdul Kalam

Washington: Indian-American community in the US joined the people of India in mourning the death of former President APJ Abdul Kalam, and said it was his "simplicity and humility" that endeared him to all.

"His simplicity, humility, and inspiring personality endeared him to all and he is the most popular president of India in recent times.

He inspired millions of children and youth of the nation and gave motivational speeches across the country," President, Overseas Friends of BJP-US, Chandra Patel said.

Kalam, who would have turned 84 in October died after suffering a massive cardiac arrest during a lecture at the IIM Shillong on Monday evening.

"Dr. Kalam was indeed a people's President, and beloved child of India. All Indians across the world salute him for his invaluable contributions to India. His death is a tremendous loss to the nation and creates a big void that is hard to fill," Patel said.

North America Telugu Society (NATS) in a statement said, it is "deeply saddened" on the sudden demise of Kalam.

"Dr. Kalam had a special relationship with the Telugu land, spending a major portion of his life here," said Telugu Association of North America (TANA) in another statement TANA was a supporter of Kalam's Lead India 2020 movement.

"A P J Abdul Kalam has left a rich legacy to the people of India and an even richer legacy to the world," Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra said.

"His love of nation and peaceful celebratory co-existence of multiple faiths are an enduring lesson of humility," he said.

India has indeed lost one of the iconic leaders of all time and the passing away of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has left a tremendous void, Chairman of the Indian National Overseas Congress, US, George Abraham said.

Pakistan condoles Kalam's death

Pakistan condoled the death of former president APJ Abdul Kalam, saying he would be remembered for his meritorious services.

"The Government of Pakistan expresses its condolences on the demise of Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, former President of the Republic of India," the Foreign Office said.

"Dr Kalam will be remembered for his meritorious services for his country," it said in a statement.