Shambaiah (73), a senior BJP leader of the town, passed away at his residence on R.P. Road in Nanjangud on Thursday following brief illness. He leaves behind his wife Prema, a former TMC member, a son, 3 daughters and a host of relatives and friends. Shambhaiah was among the frontline leaders who built the BJP from grassroots level in the town. His last rites were performed yesterday.