New Delhi: Vinod Mehta, distinguished Editor and commentator who successfully launched a number of newspapers and magazines, passed away here on Sunday after prolonged illness. He was 73. Mehta, who was Editorial Chairman of 'Outlook' magazine which he had founded, had been ailing for several months and was hospitalised at AIIMS. He was suffering from severe lung infection and was on life support. He died of multiple organ failure, AIIMS spokesperson Amit Gupta said.

Mehta, who wrote the bestselling autobiography 'Lucknow Boy' in 2011, was a popular face in TV debates. He recently published another book 'Editor Unplugged' but could not attend its launch in December last because of his illness. Mehta was a dog lover and had adopted a street dog whom he had named 'Editor. The dog often figured in his columns in 'Outlook' magazine. Born in Rawalpindi (now in Pakistan) in 1942, Mehta was known for his bold journalism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his death. "Frank & direct in his opinions, Vinod Mehta will be remembered as a fine journalist & writer. Condolences to his family on his demise," Modi tweeted.