Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today condoled the demise of Pran Kishan Sikand, known as Pran, describing him as "an icon" and a talent whose "versatility in etching a lasting impression on cinema audience's mind improved with time".
Pran, who has over 400 films to his credit in a career spanning six decades, died in a Mumbai hospital late Friday following prolonged illness. He was 93.
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In a condolence message, Manmohan Singh said, "Pran had entertained several generations of Indians with his riveting performances in hundreds of celluloid roles. His versatility in etching a lasting impression on cinema audience's mind improved with time for which he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award."
"He worked with doyens of film industry among which he was an icon," said Singh, expressing sadness over Pran's passing away.
"I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and Pran's countless fans and admirers. I pray for peace of the departed soul," he added.
The thespian was bestowed the 44th Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Lifetime Achievement earlier this year.u00a0