Manohar Joshi, an influential figure in Indian politics and a stalwart of the Shiv Sena, passed away early on Friday at the age of 86 due to complications related to his age. He was urgently admitted to the hospital on Thursday evening after experiencing a heart attack, and his demise was confirmed by his son, Unmesh Joshi. The funeral will take place at Shivaji Park crematorium and will be accorded full state honors.
Having battled health issues since May 2023 following a brain stroke, Joshi spent about a month in Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, before being released with a grim prognosis. He spent his final days at his residence in Matunga.
Throughout his political career, Joshi rose from serving as a Corporator in the Bombay Municipal Corporation to holding the prestigious position of Speaker of the Lok Sabha. His political journey included serving as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, leading as the Opposition Leader, and becoming the first non-Congress Chief Minister of Maharashtra in 1995 under the Shiv Sena-BJP coalition government. Later, he contributed to national politics as a Rajya Sabha member and as the Speaker during the tenure of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Beyond his political contributions, Joshi was also known for his educational initiatives, notably founding the Kohinoor Institute in Mumbai, which has educated countless students. His legacy is remembered fondly by many as “Joshi Sir,” a testament to his impactful life and service.
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