Former India captain and iconic left-arm spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, 77, died on Monday. The country's sports and political fraternity expressed grief in the passing away of the legend who took 266 wickets for India, including 14 five-wicket hauls and one 10-wicket haul. Here are some reactions shared via microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter) after the news of Bedi's demise broke:
BCCI: The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times.
May his soul rest in peace
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Deeply saddened by the passing of noted cricketer Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His passion for the sport was unwavering and his exemplary bowling performances led India to numerous memorable victories. He will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary spinner and former captain of the Indian cricket team Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. Bedi Ji will live in our memories not only through his contribution to the cricketing world but also as the master of crafty bowling who could weave magic on the pitch. My heartfelt condolences to his family members and his fans in this hour of grief.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur: Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of legendary India spinner Bishan Singh Bedi.
His contributions to Indian cricket and his artistry on the field will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community.
May his soul rest in peace.
READ HERE: Indian cricket great Bishan Singh Bedi passes away
Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar: "Sashu," he'd say with warmth that only he possessed. To Bishan Paaji, I wasn't just another cricketer; I was like a son. Under his nurturing guidance, I scored my first 100 in England. On chilly NZ evenings, we'd sit over meals, and I'd hang on to every story he told, every piece of wisdom he shared. Today, there's an echoing silence where his voice used to be. The world seems a little emptier without you, Paaji. Rest in the eternal peace you so deserve
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah: Sad to hear the demise of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian Cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler and his impeccable character. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla: Saddened by the news of demise of former cricketer Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. The legendary spinner was one of the most successful overseas players. He was an elegant mover with both bat & ball. He will remain an all time inspiration for cricketers. My condolences. Om Shanti.
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee: Saddened at the demise of the legendary Indian cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi. The iconic left-arm spin bowler had brought home many spectacular victories for us and his name is etched in the memory of millions of his fans. A great captain and a strong personality, he is a beacon light for Indian sports. Sincere condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers
Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir: Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones!
Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin: I’m sorry to hear about Bishan Singh Bedi sir’s passing away. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family.
May his soul rest in peace.
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari: Deeply saddened by the loss of a cricket legend and former Captain of Team India, Padma Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His exceptional talent as a spin bowler left an indelible mark on the cricket world. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his legacy continue to inspire generations. Omm Shanti.
India international Mohammed Siraj: A legend of Indian cricket. RIP Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones
India international Dinesh Karthik: Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Bishan Singh Bedi Sir, a legend and a true ambassador of the sport. His contribution to Indian cricket will be remembered forever.
My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Writer, historian Ramachandra Guha: Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi. He was a great cricketer and an even greater human being. He was a moral beacon for all those who knew him.