Philanthropist and businesswoman Parmeshwar Godrej passes away

Parmeshwar Godrej, wife of Adi Godrej, chairman of Godrej group, passed away on Monday night at the age of 70 due to a lung disease she had been suffering from a long time. She passed away at Breach Candy Hospital and the cremation took place on the same night. 

Five years ago, Parmeshwar was diagnosed with a lung disease and was receiving treatment for it. A few days ago, she suffered an infection and the  doctors  suspected pneumonia. 

Parmeshwar was known for her work for spreading AIDS awareness through the Heroes project that she launched in 2002 along with Hollywood actor Richard Gere. Her work in this field led her to work in other sectors related to women's and children's health.

Not only was she a philanthropist, she was known as one of Mumbai's most gracious and generous hosts too. In 2012, she hosted an exclusive soiree with American talk show host Oprah Winfrey at her villa in Juhu.

Ex-cricketer and Pakistani politician Imran Khan took to Twitter and express his condolences. "Devastated by death of close friend, Parmeshwar Godrej," he said.

Devastated by death of close friend, Parmeshwar Godrej, last night: she was always there for me in my most difficult times. 1/2

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 11, 2016

2/2 May her husband Adhi and her children find strength to cope with this loss.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 11, 2016

Shocked & deeply saddened.. So many lovely conversations.. Hard to believe she is no more..Parmeshwar Godrej RIP

— Ashvini Yardi (@AshviniYardi) October 11, 2016

#ParmeshwarGodrej was often seen as the real whip behind husband Adi. She stole the limelight & he didn't seem to mind. pic.twitter.com/Uv0qypssCz

— Farzana Versey (@farzana_versey) October 11, 2016