New Delhi: Sister Nirmala, who took over after Mother Teresa as Head of Missionaries of Charity, died at an age of 81 today.
Born in Ranchi in 1934 to a Brahmin soldier who came from Nepal, she joined the order at the age of 17, after converting to Christianity.
In 1976, Sister Nirmala started the contemplative branch of the Missionaries of Charity and remained at its head until 1997 when she was elected to succeed Mother Teresa as Superior General of the institute.
The Government of India had in 2009 bestowed the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, on Sister Nirmala for her services to the nation.
Her term as Superior General ended on 25 March 2009, and she was succeeded by German-born Sister Mary Prema Pierick, M.C. She declined a third term citing health issues.
Prime Minister condoled her death on his Twitter account, “My deepest condolences to the Missionaries of Charity family on the passing away of Sister Nirmala.”
“Sister Nirmala's life was devoted to service, caring for the poor & underprivileged. Saddened by her demise. May her soul rest in peace,” his another tweet read.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday tweeted " Saddened at the passing of Sister Nirmala who headed Missionaries of Charity after Mother Teresa. Kolkata and the world will miss her."
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