Sports fraternity pays homage to `remarkable woman` Jayalalithaa

New Delhi [India], Dec.6 (ANI): The sporting fraternity has come in unison to offer their condolences over the demise of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, who passed away on Monday at the age of 68. Jayalalithaa,who had suffered a massive cardiac arrest on Sunday evening, was admitted to the hospital on September 22 after she complained of fever and dehydration. The actor-turned-politician breathed her last at 11:30 p.m. at the Apollo Hospital in Chennai. In a condolence message, ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal tweeted, "Rest in peace #Jayalalithaa #AmmaForever..." Describing 'Amma' as a `remarkable woman`, renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle wrote on Twitter, "You just had to admire her pluck and her tenacity. #Jayalalithaa was a remarkable woman." Outpouring his emotions, Indian pacer Umesh Yadav said he is deeply saddened over the demise of Jayalalithaa, before adding that the entire nation would surely miss her. "Deeply saddened with the demise of a Jayalalitha ji entire nation will miss you may rest her soul in a peace #Rip Amma," Yadav tweeted of AIADMK supremo. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag also expressed his grief by re-tweeting Umesh Yadav's tweet and added, "Prayers for maintenance of peace in Tamil Nadu. Strength to near and dear ones #RIPAmma." Meanwhile, tributes are being paid to Jayalalithaa at the Rajaji Hall in Chennai where her mortal remains have been kept. Preparations are currently underway at MGR Memorial at Marina beach, Chennai, for her last rites ceremony. President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are travelling to Chennai to pay their last respects to the departed soul. The Government of India has as a mark of respect to Jayalalithaa announced that the national flag will fly half-mast in the capitals of all states and UTs. The government has also decided to accord state funeral to the departed leader which will take place at 4.30 p.m. in Chennai.(ANI)