Born in Ranchi in 1934 to a Brahmin soldier who came from Nepal, Nirmala Joshi joined the order at the age of 17, after converting from Hinduism.

Her body would be brought to Mother House tomorrow morning and the funeral will be held at 4 PM.

"Anyone who wants to pay respect can come to Mother House tomorrow," the official said.

After joining the Missionaries of Charity, Sister Nirmala studied law at the insistence of Mother Teresa, who often took her along during her tours abroad.

On March 13, 1997, six months before Mother Teresa's death, Sister Nirmala was selected the Superior General of the Missionaries of Charity.

Sister Nirmala was bestowed with the Padma Vibhushan in 2009 for her services to the nation. Her term as the Head of Missionaries of Charity ended the same year.

Sister Mary Prema was elected to succeed Sister Nirmala during a general chapter held in Calcutta in April 2009.