Indian politicians, celebrities and the public turned out to say goodbye to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayaram Jayalalithaa Tuesday.
Crowds thronged the streets as her supporters massed to try and pay respects and get a glimpse of her body, lying in state at Rajaji Hall in Chennai.
As politicians made arrangements to attend her funeral, they also took to social media to pay tribute to the leader.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a series of tweets about her demise:
“Deeply saddened at the passing away of Selvi Jayalalithaa. Her demise has left a huge void in Indian politics,” he wrote.
“Jayalalithaa ji’s connect with citizens, concern for welfare of the poor, the women & marginalized will always be a source of inspiration,” he said.
“I will always cherish the innumerable occasions when I had the opportunity to interact with Jayalalithaa ji. May her soul rest in peace,” he said.
Opposition Congress Party leader Rahul Gandhi said she stood up for minorities.
“We lost a great leader today. Women,farmers,fishermen &the marginalised dreamt through her eyes.We will miss Jayalalithaa ji,Amma to millions,” he wrote.
Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj wrote on her account that the passing of the politician was a personal loss.
“It is tragic. It is painful. She was a woman of dignity and self – respect. We shared a warm personal relationship.#jayalalithaa”
Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, who is traveling to Chennai to attend the funeral also sent multiple tweets about her death.
One of India’s most charismatic & popular leaders, Ms. Jayalalithaa was a visionary & able administrator.
Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of the northeastern state of West Bengal, also tweeted her condolences.
“Popular, strong,bold, efficient, people- friendly, charismatic leader, Amma. Always at the heart of people. Big loss. I am shocked, saddened,” she said.
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