Chennai, Oct 3 (IANS): Industrialist and three-time legislator Pollachi N. Mahalingam journeyed on the Gandhian path and also lived as per the principles taught by Tamil saint Vallalar, said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam Friday.

The chairman of the Rs. 5,000 crore Sakthi group, 91-year-old Mahalingam died Thursday evening due to cardiac arrest.

In his condolence message Panneerselvam said: "As a member of Tamil Nadu legislature for three terms, Mahalingam worked very well. He journeyed on the Gandhian path and lived his life as per the principles taught by Vallalar."

Mahalingam was honoured with Padma Bhushan by the central government.

In his condolence message DMK president M. Karunanidhi said Mahalingam showed respect and care even for the poor.

PMK leader S. Ramadoss said it is a big loss for industry, education, literature and also for the followers of Gandhian and Vallalar principles.

Mahalingam is survived by his wife and three sons and a daughter.

Born into a farmer's family in Pollachi in Coimbatore district, Mahalingam studied at Loyola college here. He also got a diploma from the College of Engineering, Anna University.

Mahalingam was elected thrice to the Tamil Nadu assembly on a Congress ticket in 1952, 1957 and 1962.

He also played a major part in the Parambikulam-Aliyar water project.

He had published Mahatma Gandhi's works in Tamil in 20 volumes and was active in the spiritual field.