President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday expressed condolences on the demise of sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar and described him as a genius who delighted India and the world with his ethereal music.

"He became a global icon of music, art and culture. Panditji's passing away has left a void in the field of music which will be difficult to fill," Mukherjee said his condolence message to the late music icon's wife Sukanya.

Panditji's creative and versatile genius not only left an indelible mark on the world of Indian classical music but also popularised Indian classical music worldwide, he said and added that he was "extremely sad" to learn about his death.

"I extend my deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. I pray that you be granted the strength and fortitude to face this loss with resolve," the President said extending his deepest condolences to the bereaved family.