Nirmala Joshi

Nirmala Joshi (1934 – 2015), also known as Sister Nirmala, was a Catholic religious sister who succeeded Mother Teresa as the head of the Missionaries of Charity. Born in Ranchi, India, to a Brahmin family, she converted to Catholicism.

Joshi was educated by Christian missionaries and joined the Missionaries of Charity shortly after its founding. She became known for her work with the poor and marginalized, particularly in the areas of Kolkata (Calcutta) and across India. After Mother Teresa's death in 1997, Sister Nirmala was elected as Superior General, leading the order until her own resignation in 2009 due to health reasons.

During her leadership, the Missionaries of Charity expanded its presence globally, opening new houses and centers to serve the impoverished and vulnerable. She continued the order's focus on providing care for the sick, the dying, and the destitute, guided by the principles established by Mother Teresa. Sister Nirmala was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian honour, in 2009 for her services to the nation.