Bollywood filmmaker Hansal Mehta took to social media to share a poignant message following the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. In a heartfelt note, Mehta acknowledged his personal and collective regret, as he reflected on the legacy of the veteran statesman. Dr Singh, the architect behind India's economic reforms, passed away on Thursday night (December 26) at Delhi's AIIMS. He was 92.

Several film and television celebrities have taken to their respective social media accounts to mourn his death.

Hnasal Mehta, who essayed the role of former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in The Accidental Prime Minister, a film based on Dr Singh, said he owes the late politician an apology.

"The nation owes him an apology. More than anybody else, I owe him one. Whatever the compulsion or intent, it is a regret I will carry with a very heavy heart. Sorry, sir," Mehta wrote on his official X account.

Further praising Dr Singh's dignity and grace in the often tumultuous world of Indian politics. he added, "Besides your achievements as an economist, Finance Minister, and Prime Minister, you were an honorable man—a rare gentleman in a vocation dominated by ruffians."

Dr Singh, who served as India's Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was a distinguished economist and policymaker. His tenure as Finance Minister during the 1991 economic liberalisation period is often hailed as transformative for India's economy. Despite his towering achievements, he was often the subject of criticism, particularly during his second term as Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, a seven-day state mourning will be observed throughout the country as a mark of respect to the former PM. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast across India.

A state funeral will be accorded to Dr Singh and there will be no official entertainment during the period of state mourning.