India Friday mourned the death of former South African President and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, with President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the Parliament paying tributes to the statesman who died Thursday night at the age of 95.

"President Mandela was a statesman, world leader and icon of inspiration of humanity. He was a great friend of India and his contribution for strengthening the close ties between our two countries will be always remembered," President Mukherjee said.

The Indian prime minister described Mandela's death as "India's loss."

"A giant among men has passed away. This is as much India's loss as South Africa's. He was a true Gandhian. His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for generations to come. I join all those who are praying for his soul," Singh tweeted.

The Indian Parliament also paid tributes to the departed South African leader who was awarded Bharat Ratna, this country's highest civilian award, for his contribution to friendship between India and South Africa. Both the Upper House and Lower House were adjourned till Monday as a mark of respect to him.

Mandela, who spent 27 years in jail, was suffering from a prolonged lung illness and had been under intensive care at his home, since he was discharged from a hospital this September, till he died.

His death was announced on South African national TV by President Jacob Zuma. "Our nation has lost its greatest son," he said.