'Zorba the Greek' Music Composer Dies Aged 96

Mikis Theodorakis, the composer of worldwide famed "Zorba the Greek" music, passed away on Thursday at the age of 96.

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said: "Today we lost a part of Greece's soul. Mikis Theodorakis, Mikis the teacher, the intellectual, the radical, our Mikis has gone,"

The news was widespread across the Greek nation, in addition, the Greek parliament held a moment of silence mourning the death of the renowned composer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzlcxN0lxSo

On his side, the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated: "Greece today mourns the loss of Mikis Theodorakis. An iconic composer. A fighter for democracy and social justice."

He added: "We are deeply saddened by his passing, and are only comforted by the knowledge that his legacy will live on, enriching lives the world over, for generations to come."

Theodorakis was widely known for his communist and radical political points of view. He also supported the Palestinians rights against the Israeli occupation, in addition, he visited Bierut during the Israeli siege of Beirut.

Therefore, Lebanese author Fawaz Tarabolsy mourned the Greek composer's death, saying: "We won't forget your visit to Bierut during the Israeli siege, and your Greek anthem dedicated to Palestine."