Amma no more: 'Her passing away has caused irreparable loss to nation,' says Vidyasagar Rao

Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao condoled the death of J Jayalalithaa describing her a charismatic leader and people's chief Minister. "I am deeply shocked and grieved to hear about the sad demise of Selvi J Jayalalithaa, the charismatic leader and the people s Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu," Rao said. "She stood as a symbol of dynamism, bravery and was known for her sagacity and sharp intellect. Affectionately called as 'Amma', she was an embodiment of womens empowerment and filled with indefatigable spirit. She was known for her noble qualities and sacrificed her life for the cause of the poor and downtrodden," a Raj Bhavan statement quoted Rao as saying.

"Selvi J Jayalalithaa has struggled for more than two months in the hospital and fought the death valiantly with her indomitable will power. It is sad that clutches of death have snatched away the life of the leader of masses," the release said. "I fondly remember the day she received me at the Chennai Airport when I came to assume office as Governor of Tamil Nadu. Her affectionate gesture and kind words are still afresh in my memory," the release quoting Rao said further.

"Her passing away has caused an irreparable loss to the nation in general and to Tamil Nadu in particular. I express my sincere condolences from the bottom of my heart to the people of Tamil Nadu and pray to God to rest her soul in peace," he said.