Mumbai: The former Chief Minister of the state, Manohar Joshi, was admitted to Hinduja Hospital yesterday afternoon due to declining health after being unwell for the past few days. Unfortunately, he passed away at the age of 87 at 3 am during treatment at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai. Joshi had been admitted to the hospital earlier for a heart attack and was receiving treatment in the ICU. He had previously sought treatment a few months ago for a brain hemorrhage but was discharged after stabilization. Despite that, he faced another health setback leading to his recent admission.

Manohar Joshi, affectionately known as Joshi sir, held various significant positions in his political career. Beginning as a member of the Legislative Council from Shiv Sena, he went on to serve as the Mayor of Mumbai in 1976-77. Joshi played a pivotal role in the Shiv Sena-BJP coalition government, becoming the Chief Minister in 1995.

Despite a period of reduced political activity, Joshi's extensive career included roles as a corporator of Mumbai Municipal Corporation, Member of Legislative Council, Member of Parliament, Union Minister of Heavy Industries, Speaker of Lok Sabha and Member of Rajya Sabha. His journey started in the middle-class family of Nandvi village, Raigad district, and after migrating to Mumbai for education, he settled in the city.

Having initially worked as an officer in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, Joshi later joined Shiv Sena under Balasaheb Thackeray's leadership. Notably, during the rebellion within Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde, in his efforts to question senior leaders, met with Joshi among others, reflecting the intricate dynamics within the party.