NEW DELHI: Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh, who passed away early this morning, has been described by Vice President M Hamid Ansari as an enduring role model to the youth and sportsmen in the country.

The Vice-President, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni expressed grief on the death of the veteran actor who had never lost a fight during his career as a wrestler.

Ansari said Dara Singh’s acting career was most memorable for the intensity and diversity of characters that he had portrayed. His role as a nominated Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) is remembered by one and all.

Dr. Manmohan Singh said Dara Singh had been a noted film actor, producer, and an internationally acclaimed wrestler. He added: "A self educated son-of-the-soil, he rose to the heights of the entertainment world, sports arena and public life with humility and grace."

Soni said, "Dara Singh ji will always have a special place in our hearts for his immense contribution to the Indian film industry in various capacities as an actor, director and producer. I also recall his distinguished record as member of the Rajya Sabha."