Rahul Gandhi mourns passing of Siddaganga Mutt seer

New Delhi, Jan 21 Congress president Rahul Gandhi condoled Monday the demise of Siddaganga Mutt chief Shivakumara Swamiji, saying his passing away leaves behind a deep spiritual void.

"I am sorry to hear about the death of Shivakumar Swami Ji, Pontiff of the Siddaganga Mutt. Swami Ji was regarded and loved by a large number of Indians, from all religions and communities. His passing leaves behind a deep spiritual void. My sympathies to every one of his supporters," he tweeted.

Congress leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge asked for the Centre to bestow 'Bharat Ratna' on the seer. "I ask for the government to give him Bharat Ratna. He is deserving of getting the title. He was an incredible man from Karnataka and it is justified, despite all the trouble to bestow the Bharat Ratna on him," he said.

The party in its official Twitter handle also put out a picture of Gandhi meeting the seer.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Siddaganga Shri Shivakumara Swamiji, his benevolent administration to society will always be remembered," Congress said.

"His spiritual teachings, his benevolence and his large hearted acceptance of all creatures will keep on moving ages to come. We join a huge number of Indians in this time of grief," it included.

Prominent Lingayat diviner of Tumakuru-based Siddaganga Mutt, 111-year-old Shivakumara Swamiji, who was known as the 'Walking God', died Monday after a prolonged illness.