Former Indian President R. Venkataraman who was ailing for the past few months passed away in New Delhi on 27th January, 2009. 98 years old Venkataraman served as the country's head of state for five years till 1992. He was hospitalized in critical condition on January 12. The former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam expressed condolence. Former Interior (Home) Minister, Shivraj Patil, described Venkatraman as a great leader who would be remembered forever. 

Courtesy : ANI Videos: January, 2009