"The Handwara attack - A dark time for our nation. Our soldiers' courage and determination to safeguard our nation remains unparalleled. I stand in silence to honour our soldiers who died on duty fighting for us," Superstar Mahesh Babu said on Monday, mourning the martyrdom of five Indian soldiers in Sunday's attack by Pakistan-backed terrorists in Kashmir.

The actor added, "Heartfelt condolences to all their grieving family and loved ones. Sending them love & strength in this time of grief." Mahesh ended the message with 'Jai Hind'.

The actor had played a brave soldier in Anil Ravipudi's Sankranthi release, 'Sarileru Neekevvaru'.

Mahesh is the first big apolitical Tollywood star to tweet on the attack that has saddened the nation. Soon after the attack, Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted out, "I bow to our soldiers and security personnel martyred while protecting our motherland during an encounter with terrorists in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir. Nation will always remain indebted to their supreme sacrifice. My deepest condolences to their bereaved families."

The Handwara attack - A dark time for our nation. Our soldiers' courage and determination to safeguard our nation remains unparalleled. I stand in silence to honour our soldiers who died on duty fighting for us.

— Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) May 4, 2020