Manohar Joshi dies: Life and legacy of the first Sena CM in Maharashtra

Manohar Joshi began his career as a teacher and entered politics in 1967.

Shiv Sena veteran and former Maharashtra chief minister Manohar Joshi passed away in the early hours of February 23. He was 86.

Joshi’s mortal remains will be kept at his Matunga Road residence. His last rites will be performed at Shivaji Park crematorium in Dadar area. Joshi is survived by his widow, a son, and two daughters.

Here is a quick recap of his journey from being a corporator to becoming the Maharashtra Chief Minister.

Born on December 2, 1937, in coastal Konkan region of Maharashtra, Joshi did his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute in Mumbai. His political innings began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He joined the Shiv Sena and emerged as a key leader of the party in the 1980s.

Joshi had served as a corporator of BMC, as the mayor, member of legislative council and Assembly, chief minister of Maharashtra, Member of the Lok Sabha, Union minister of heavy industries,  Speaker of the Lok Sabha and member of the Rajya Sabha. He was elected for a six-year term to the Rajya Sabha in March 2006 after being defeated in the previous Lok Sabha election in the Central Mumbai constituency.

Joshi served as the CM from 1995 to 1999 and was the first leader from the undivided Shiv Sena to occupy the top post in the state

The former Maharashtra CM was married to Anagha Joshi, who died in 2020 at the age of 75. He is survived by a son and two daughters.

“Pained by the passing away of Shri Manohar Joshi Ji. He was a veteran leader who spent years in public service and held various responsibilities at the municipal, state and national level. As Maharashtra CM, he worked tirelessly for the state’s progress. He also made noteworthy contributions as a Union Minister. During his tenure as the Lok Sabha Speaker, he strove to make our Parliamentary processes more vibrant and participative. Manohar Joshi Ji will also be remembered for his diligence as a legislator, having had the honour of serving in all four legislatures. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, "A leader fighting for the rights of Marathi people has passed into the pages of history."

NCP founder Sharad Pawar said Joshi was known as a straightforward leader who strived to get things done. He said, “The death of Manohar Joshi is very sad. He was known in the political circles for his outspokenness and bold work attitude. Manohar Joshi was known as a very trusted colleague of Shiv Sena chief Balasaheb Thackeray,” he told ANI.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Joshi’s contribution to society, politics and the field of education was “immense”.