Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute on the death of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, describing the anti-apartheid icon as a guiding light for countless people globally.

PM Modi said Desmond Tutu’s emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered.

The PM said he was deeply saddened by Tutu's demise, and extended his condolences to all his admirers.

In a tweet, the PM said:

“Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu was a guiding light for countless people globally. His emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered.

“I am deeply saddened by his demise, and extend my heartfelt condolences to all his admirers. May his soul rest in peace.”

Desmond Tutu, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate who was a fierce anti-apartheid activist, died Sunday at age 90 in Cape Town.

Tutu chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.