New Delhi, Dec 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday extended his condolences and expressed his deep grief at the demise of eminent painter Manjit Bawa.“The prime minister extends his condolences to the bereaved members of the Bawa’s family,” a statement issued here said.

The prime minster also recognized Bawa’s contribution to Indian art.

“Bawa brought Sufi sensibilities to contemporary Indian art. His depiction of idyllic scenes of love and use of vibrant colours earned for him a special place in the art world. His contribution to Indian art will be long remembered,” the statement said.

Bawa, 67, died in the national capital early Monday after a prolonged illness.

Born in Dhuri in Punjab in 1941, Bawa studied at the College of Art in New Delhi. He obtained a diploma in silk screen printing from the London School of Printing, Essex. Bawa also worked as silk screen painter in London from 1967 to 1971.