Former president Pranab Mukherjee dies aged 84

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, who was admitted at the Army Research and Referral Hospital died on Monday evening, his son Abhijit Mukherjee said in a tweet. Abhijit Mukherjee tweeted: "With a Heavy Heart, this is to inform you that my father Pranab Mukherjee has just passed away in spite of the best efforts of Doctors of RR Hospital and prayers ,duas and prarthanas from people throughout India! I thank all of You."

Pranab Mukherjee was hospitalised for the past 21 days and been critical following a brain surgery. The veteran Congress leader was admitted to the hospital at 12.07 p.m. on August 10 in a critical condition. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday announced a seven-day state mourning in memory of former President Pranab Mukherjee who passed away here this evening.

As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, seven days` state mourning will be observed throughout India from August 31 to September 6, both days inclusive, the MHA said in a statement. "During the period of state mourning, the National Flag will fly at half-mast on all buildings throughout India, where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment."