By Sanjeev Srivastava BBC reporter in Bombay

Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has led tributes for the popular film and television actress, Priya Tendulkar, who has died aged 42.

Her crusading role in and as Rajni gave voice to many important social issues

Atal Behari Vajpayee, Indian Prime Minister

Mr Vajpayee expressed "deep sorrow" at the news. Ms Tendulkar died in Bombay on Thursday following a massive heart attack.

The daughter of eminent playwright Vijay Tendulkar, Priya was regarded as India's first television star.

She shot into the limelight in the 1980s playing the lead role in a popular television serial, Rajni.

The serial depicted her as a never-say-die woman who fought for her rights whatever the odds.

Multi-faceted personality

Mr Vajpayee said in a message of condolence to her family that "her crusading role in and as Rajni gave voice to many important social issues".

"The popular TV show was a precursor to many meaningful issue-based serials," he said.

Priya Tendulkar was known for her aggressive approach towards her guests in several talk shows that she hosted.

Her friends and family remember her as a fighter in real life. too.

She also appeared many times on stage and won several literary awards for her own works.

But it was the weekly TV serial, Rajni, which made her a household name in India.