On the demise of Shiv Sena Supremo, Shri Balasaheb Thackeray, in a condolence message to his son Shri Uddhav Thackeray the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has said: -

"I am extremely sad to learn about the passing away of your father, Shri Balasaheb Thackeray.

Shri Thackeray's passing away is a loss for the people of Maharashtra and India. In his death, the nation has lost a veteran leader who worked to help the common man and whose contributions in the field of media added a different perspective to the political discourse.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to other members of your family and numerous followers of Shri Balasaheb Thackeray. I pray to the Almighty to give you and your family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss."

This release issued at 1950 hrs