India lost an illustrious son in Dev Anand: Jayalalithaa

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and yesteryears actress J. Jayalalithaa Sunday condoled the death of Bollywood legend Dev Anand in London, saying India has lost 'a great actor, an illustrious son and a true patriot'.

'The universally popular evergreen hero of 'Hum Dono', 'Kala Pani', 'Guide' and so many other much acclaimed movies was the epitome of Indian pride and sensibility,' Jayalaltihaa said in a statement here.

She said the actor 'charted his own course on the silver screen and was an institution by himself. A most versatile actor, his footprints on Indian cinema are indelible.'

'He lived life to the full and was known above all as a good human being. Having many box office hits to his credit, almost all his films like 'Ziddi', 'Hum Dono', 'Baazi', 'Kala Pani', 'Tere Ghar Ke Samne' are memorable,' the chief minister added.

Describing Dev Anand as a 'multifaceted personality', she said 'every role he played created an impact on the minds of viewers. His movies were noteworthy for their melodious songs which are popular even today.'

He has won many richly deserved national and international awards and honours, she added.

'His demise is an irreparable loss to the film industry as well as to the nation. Dev Anand's death has left a void that can never be filled,' Jayalalithaa said conveying her deepest condolences to the family members of the departed actor.