Congress president Sonia Gandhi pays tribute to former President of India Pranab Mukherjee

Congress President Sonia Gandhi has extended her heartfelt condolences to the family of the former President of India Pranab Mukherjee who passed away on Monday evening. In a letter addressed to his daughter Sharmishtha Mukherjee, Sonia Gandhi paid homage to the former President saying that his contribution to the building of the nation is remarkable and cannot be forgotten.

"He brought distinction to every post he held, he established a genuine rapport with colleagues across the political spectrum, and he served the country with the utmost dedication. His life over the past 50 years mirrored 50 years of the history of India, for he played a crucial role both in shaping the course of events as well as actively participating in them, whether as a Cabinet minister, parliamentarian or President of India", said Sonia Gandhi

"Pranab da had been such an integral and prominent part of national life, the Congress party and the central government for over five decades, it is hard to imagine how we can do without his wisdom, experience, sage advice and deep understanding of so many subjects," she further added.

Recalling her own association with him, Sonia Gandhi said, "I personally have so many warm memories of working with him, and I learnt so much from him. The Congress party deeply mourns his loss and will always honour his memory."