(Seychelles News Agency) - Seychelles President James Michel has sent a message of condolences to the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, following the death of his wife, the First Lady of the Republic of India, Suvra Mukherjee.

In his message, President Michel expressed his heartfelt condolences to President Mukherjee and to the people of India.

“I wanted to personally assure you of our solidarity and support as you and the people of India come to terms with this loss. After fifty-eight years of marriage, the loss of a devoted and beloved wife and mother is a deep bereavement.  May the memory of the joy of her life give you strength and consolation. Smt. Suvra Mukherjee will be remembered for her talent and creative spirit as a lover of dance, song and theatre, as well as being an accomplished painter,” said President Michel.

President Michel continued his message by wishing President Mukherjee, his family and the people of India much strength and fortitude in this moment of immense grief.

“ Our two peoples are linked by bonds of kinship, which means that your loss is felt by the Seychellois people as well,” said President Michel.

Suvra Mukherjee passed away at the age of 74 on Tuesday evening at a hospital in Delhi after experiencing respiratory problems following a long illness. Her cremation took place yesterday.