From correspondents in Delhi, India, 11:01 PM IST

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday expressed grief over the 'sad demise' of noted painter Tyeb Mehta and said his death is a major loss to the art world.

'I am deeply grieved to learn of the sad demise of the renowned painter Tyeb Mehta,' the prime minister said in a statement here.

The 84-year-old artist was suffering from a heart ailment and died in Mumbai Thursday.

In 2002, his painting 'Celebration' was sold for Rs.15 million at a Christie's auction. It is the highest sum for an Indian painting at an international auction.

He received the Padma Bhushan award in 2007.

The prime minister said the 'celebrated artist... occupied a very prominent place in the progressive art movement of our country. His creative paintings won him wide acclaim and recognition at the international level.

'He was a source of inspiration to many artists and his memory and legacy will continue to endure,' he said, adding that his 'unfortunate passing away is a major loss to the art world'.

'On this sad occasion, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the members of his bereaved family and to his wide circle of friends, admirers and followers. I pray for peace of the departed soul,' the prime minister said.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)