New Delhi, Sep 20 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee Saturday condoled the death of mandolin musician Uppalapu Srinivas.

In a message to his brother, U. Rajesh, Mukherjee said: "I am extremely saddened to learn about the untimely passing away of your brother."

Srinivas died Friday morning at a private hospital in Chennai.

"In his passing away, the nation has lost a renowned artiste who played the mandolin with magical touch," said the president.

"Please convey my heartfelt condolences to all members of your family. I pray to the almighty to give you and your family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss," he said.

Born Feb 28, 1969 in Palakolu, Andhra Pradesh, Srinivas was a child prodigy. He picked up his father's mandolin at the age of six and started playing it.

"He was an accomplished musician who enthralled audiences with his performances in India and abroad," he added.

In 1998, he was honoured with the Padma Shri award. Later in 2010, he was honoured with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.