M Karunanidhi death: Indian sports fraternity pays rich tributes to former Tamil Nadu chief minister

M Karunanidhi passed away in Kauvery hospital in Chennai on Tuesday evening. 

In what came as a big shock for the political fraternity, five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu, M Karunanidhi, passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness. Aged 94, Karunanidhi was admitted in Kauvery Hospital where he breathed his last at 6:10 pm on 7 August.

While Karunanidhi had been battling ill health for 11 days, he was critically ill in the last 24 hours due to multiple organ failure. Minutes after the news was announced, from former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag to chess legend Viswanathan Anand, sports fraternity paid rich tributes to one of the most renowned figures in the political fraternity.

Also Read: Viswanathan Anand pays rich tribute to M Karunanidhi, shares heartwarming anecdote on Twitter

"Condolences to the family and supporters of #Karunanidhi ji. May everyone maintain peace in Tamil Nadu," tweeted Sehwag.

Viswanathan Anand also shared an interesting anecdote as to how was he was honoured by Karunanidhi after becoming the World champion.

Senior Indian off-spinner R Ashwin, tweeted, "It's sad to hear about the demise of  Dr. M. Karunanidhi, may his RIP and my condolences to his family and friends."

Sportspersons should not aim at winning prizes alone, but must utilise the opportunities to improve their skills, Karunanidhi had said to the sportsmen he had honoured in 2008. Now the DMK patriarch rides away into the sunset, leaving only memories.

Fans had turned up in big numbers outside the hospital ever since it was announced that he was critically ill. Karunanidhi's mortal remains will be taken first to his home in Gopalapuram and then to Rajaji Hall for the public to pay last respects.