Bigg Boss 13 winner and TV actor Sidharth Shukla's family issued their first official statement after his demise on Thursday. Expressing their gratitude to the Mumbai police and well-wishers, the actor's family requested people to allow them the privacy to grieve.

"Heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of Sidharth’s journey and showered him with unconditional love. It definitely doesn’t end here as he now resides in our hearts forever! Sidharth valued his privacy, hence we request you to allow our family the privacy to grieve. A special Thank You to the Mumbai Police force for their sensitivity and compassion. They have been like a shield, protecting us and standing by us every minute of the day! Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Om Shanti -The Shukla Family," the statement read.

Sidharth Shukla passed away on Thursday due to a heart attack at the age of 40. He is survived by his mother and two sisters. A prayer meet will be held in Sidharth’s honour at 5 pm today by his family and all his fans will be allowed to join in virtually.

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