Nirmala Joshi of the first Sisters of the institute to head a foreign mission when she went to Panama. In 1976, Joshi 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 bestowed the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, on Sister Joshi on Republic Day (26 January) 2009 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. Joshi
Nirmala (novel) accept her without a dowry." "Nirmala" was one of Premchand's most popular novels of its time in India, a time of oppression for women in Indian society that drew increasing attention from writers and poets. Prior to being published in its entirety, "Nirmala" was serialised in the magazine "Chand" over the course of a year, beginning in November 1925. It was during the time when Premchand first embarked on writing fiction based on contemporary social issues. Unlike his other works, "Nirmala" has a darker tone and ending, and its characters are less idealised. It was translated into English for the