WASHINGTON:  The Indian-American community in the U.S. joined the people of India in mourning the death of former President APJ Abdul Kalam, and said it was his "simplicity and humility" that endeared him to all.

"His simplicity, humility, and inspiring personality endeared him to all and he is the most popular president of India in recent times. He inspired millions of children and gave them motivational speeches across the country," President, Overseas Friends of BJP-U.S., Chandra Patel said.

Dr Kalam, who would have turned 84 in October died after suffering a massive cardiac arrest during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong.

"Dr Kalam was indeed a people's President, and beloved child of India. All Indians across the world salute him for his invaluable contributions to India. His death is a tremendous loss to the nation and creates a big void that is hard to fill," Mr Patel said.

North America Telugu Society (NATS) in a statement said, it is "deeply saddened" on the sudden demise of Dr Kalam.

"Dr Kalam had a special relationship with the Telugu land, spending a major part of his life here," said Telugu Association of North America (TANA) in another statement TANA was a supporter of Kalam's Lead India 2020 movement.

"A PJ Abdul Kalam has left a rich legacy to the people of India and an even richer legacy to the world," Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra said.

"His love of nation and peaceful celebratory co-existence of multiple faiths are an enduring lesson of humility," he said.

India has indeed lost one of the iconic leaders of all time and the death of former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam has left a tremendous void, Chairman of the Indian National Overseas Congress, U.S., George Abraham said.

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