Girish Karnad, playwright, actor and director passes away at the age of 81

Noted playwright and Jnanpith awardee Girish Karnad passed away on Monday. He was 81. Karnad succumbed to a prolonged illness at his residence on Vittal Mallya Road, Bengaluru.

On his demise, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor tweeted, "This is a devastating loss. A flame has been extinguished that lit up so many minds."

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the demise of veteran playwright and actor Girish Karnad, saying he will be remembered for his work for years to come.

President Kovind said with Karnad's demise India's cultural world has become poorer.

"Sad to hear of the