In his condolence message, President Pranab Mukherjee said, "President Mandela was a statesman, world leader and icon of inspiration of humanity. He was a great friend of India and his contribution for strengthening the close ties between our two countries will be always remembered".
Mandela was awarded the Bharat Ratna in honour of his contribution to the friendship between our two countries, he said.
Describing Mandela as the "greatest personalities of our times", Vice President Hamid Ansari said he represented the best of human spirit and values.
While his courage, determination and sacrifice inspired millions of people during the anti-apartheid movement, his message of peace, forgiveness and reconciliation thereafter, united them and led the rainbow nation on the path to peace and progress, he said.
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Condoling his death, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, "A giant among men has passed away. This is as much India's loss as South Africa's. He was a true Gandhian. His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for generations to come. I join all those who are praying for his soul".
Mandela, South Africa's first elected black president, was widely respected for his role in fighting racism in the country, and for forgiving his former white captors after his release from prison.