Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, and Chemicals and Fertilizers, Ananth Kumar of the BJP today breathed his last at a private hospital in Bengaluru.

All of 59, Kumar was battling lung cancer, which was reportedly at an advanced stage. As quoted by a national daily, the infection affected other organs weeks before his death. He is survived by his wife Tejashwini and two daughters, who were beside him when he died.

Condoling the Union Minister's death, Narendra Modi tweeted out, "Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work."

BS Yeddyurappa, who built the saffron party in Karnataka from scratch much like Kumar, said, "I am under deep grief to hear about the untimely demise of my friend and union minister Shri Ananth Kumar ji. He worked tirelessly to strengthen the BJP in Karnataka and nation. May his soul rest in peace and God give strength to bear his loss to his family."

Congress President Rahul Gandhi extended his condolences to Kumar's family and friends. "May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti," RaGa wrote.