Margao: Eminent Goan artist of international repute Padma Bhushan Laxman Pai was cremated on Thursday at Margao Hindu crematorium with full State honours.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant paid a condolence visit to Pai’s house. Opposition Leader Digambar Kamat, GFP chief Vijai Sardesai and the South Goa SP Pankaj Kumar Singh attended the funeral. The State government gave Guard of Honour as a mark of respect to the departed soul.
The mortal remains of the acclaimed artist, which were kept at his Dona Paula residence, were later taken to his ancestral home in Margao.
Pai’s son Akash, daughter-in-law Nidhi, close associate Shaistah Thapar and family members were present for the funeral.
Kamat said, “Goa has lost a very illustrious son.”
Vijai said, “Laxman Pai had literally taken Goa Forward as far as art was concerned. He is a symbol of Goan art and in his name art should be visible to the people through art galleries. The government should think about whether it is ignoring even after knowing that art galleries are must-see in tourism places. We will raise it in the Assembly".