Vilasrao Deshmukh passed away at a Chennai hospital following prolonged illness around 2 p. m. Tuesday. He was 67.
"I'm feeling very sorry. I have known him (Vilasrao) for years. (His son) Riteish is a close friend of mine. I spoke to him. I am very sad, it is very unexpected, " Shah Rukh said on the sidelines of an event here.
"He was a wonderful gentleman, apart from being the chief minister. He was a very wonderful person. My respects to the family. I am deeply disturbed, " added the 46-year-old.
Vilasrao is survived by his wife and three sons. His son Riteish, and daughter-in-law Genelia, are popular Bollywood actors.