Prime Minister condoles Dara Singh's death

Describing acclaimed wrestler Dara Singh as a 'son of the soil' Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed grief at his demise saying he rose to the heights of the entertainment world, sports arena and public life with humility and grace.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Dara Singh, who has been an inspiration and icon to many generations in our country. His contribution to the Hindi and Punjabi cinema, wrestling and the Upper House of the Parliament will be remembered by millions," he said in his condolence message.

The Prime Minister said Singh was "a self educated son of the soil" who rose to the heights of the entertainment world, sports arena and public life with humility and grace.

"I wish to send my deepest condolences to the family of Dara Singh and to his countless admirers in India and abroad," he said.

The wrestler-turned-actor died in Mumbai early this morning.