Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Monday expressed grief over the death of Union Minister Ananth Kumar, describing him as a "value based" politician who made significant contribution to the country as a parliamentarian and an union minister.

"Kumar's pro-people attitude and activities made him apple of the eye of Bengalurians," Kumaraswamy said in a condolence message.

"Our families had a friendship beyond politics. He always valued and had given priority to friendship. I have lost a great friend in his death," he said.