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Messages of condolences pour in from around the world on Friday over the loss of former South African President Nelson Mandela, whose contribution to democracy and racial equality has won profuse applause from his country and beyond.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that Mandela was a symbol of an entire epoch in Africa's modern history.

"His name is firmly connected to the defeat of apartheid and the building of a democratic South Africa," Putin said.

Mandela died Thursday night at the age of 95 at his home in Johannesburg, following a prolonged battle against lung infection.

The legendary 1993 Nobel Peace Prize winner has led South Africa's transition from white-minority rule in the 1990s and spent 27 years in prison for his political activities.

In 1994, he became the first black president of South Africa after 35 years of white domination and the ignominious regime of apartheid, which limited all the human and civic rights of non-white population.

"A giant among men has passed away," said Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in a tweet. "His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for generations to come."

The Indian government announced a five-day state mourning to show respect to the anti-apartheid icon.

Flags were also lowered in Britain, Algeria, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Tanzania, Cuba and New Zealand.

Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras said in a message of condolences: "Today we bid farewell to a hero who left a mark on history... Nelson Mandela was an ideologist fighting apartheid, racism and violence. We will always honor his memory."

Portuguese President Anibal Cavaco Silva said Mandela "bequeaths an extraordinary legacy of universality that will last for many generations."

"His example of political courage, his moral stature and the trust he placed on the capability of reconciliation are true lessons of humanism," he said.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on Friday expressed his sadness at Mandela's death, saying he was an inspirational leader and a remarkable man.

"He is someone that leaders around the world have looked to, have spoken with, and for the people of New Zealand, someone that we've had great admiration for," Key said.

Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that Mandela has been "a historic leader for South Africa."

"His humanity, courage and lifelong fight for freedom and equality inspired millions around the world," he added.

Cuban President Raul Castro expressed "deep sorrow" over Mandela's death, and praised "the height of his example" and the "greatness of his work".

"It is not possible to talk on Mandela as someone from the past, he will be always remembered by his example, his work, the strength of his convictions in the fight against apartheid, and for his invaluable contribution to the construction of a new South Africa," the Cuban leader said.

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan said in a condolence letter that Mandela will be remembered and honored by mankind as one of its greatest liberators.

"Although it has come at the advanced age of 95, Mandela's death will create a huge vacuum that will be difficult to be filled in our continent," he said.

Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete said in a statement on Friday that Mandela's forgiveness and love played a major role in uniting South Africans after they had endured prolonged fighting against a white minority racist regime.

"Mandela is a good example of how humankind is supposed to live, " Kikwete said, urging South Africans and people across the world to emulate the life of Mandela.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud said Mandela "has left an impact on the lives of people in every corner of the world."

"He was an inspiration and beacon of hope to people across the globe who are fighting for justice and peace in the world," he said.