"On behalf of the American people, I express heartfelt condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj," Verma said in a statement here.
"Our hearts go out to his many disciples and devotees around the world at this difficult time." he stated.
Pramukh Swami (born Shantilal Patel and ordained Shastri Narayanswarupdas) passed away at the age of 95 on August 13 at Botad in Saurashtra, Gujarat, where he was stationed.
His mortal remains were consigned to the flames on Wednesday.
"We salute the lifetime of commitment by His Holiness to interfaith harmony and tolerance which made him a close partner of countless political, civic, and spiritual leaders around the world," Verma said in his statement.
"We also stand in admiration of his service to his fellow human beings including promoting inclusive economic development and providing assistance to humanitarian disaster relief efforts."
