State mourns civic and cultural leader
VASCO
Goa lost one of its respected and multi-talented personalities with the passing of Paresh Vasantrao Joshi – an industrialist, former Chairperson of Mormugao Municipal Council, and a key figure in community service. He passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 76 while undergoing treatment at Goa Medical College Hospital.
A native of Vasco and a member of the prominent Joshi family, Joshi breathed his last at around 11.45 am due to age-related health issues. His final rites were held on Wednesday evening at the Hindu crematorium in Khariwaddo, Vasco. The cremation was attended by hundreds, including political leaders, social workers, cultural figures, and long-time associates.
A man of many roles
As Chairperson of the Mormugao Municipal Council, Joshi played a key role in development projects that improved public services in Vasco. He also served as Vice President of Kala Academy and was known for promoting local art, literature, and theatre. A noted Marathi theatre director, his plays received critical praise and awards.
He led the All Goa Petrol Pump Owners’ Association for over three decades, working to protect the interests of fuel dealers across Goa. He was also a founding member and past President of the Mormugao Hindu Samaj.
Work in education and tradition
As Vice President of the Mormugao Education Society (MES), which manages colleges in Sancoale, Joshi worked to improve access to quality education. His wife, Lalita Joshi, a former MES professor and author, often worked with him in academic and literary fields. Joshi had the rare honour of leading both the 100th and 125th Shri Damodar Bhajan Saptah festivals in Vasco.
He is survived by his wife, two married daughters, and one married son.
CM, leaders offer condolences
VASCO: The demise of former former chairperson of Mormugao Municipal Council and noted industrialist Paresh Joshi triggered an outpouring of grief across the State.
Leaders, citizens, educationists, theatre artists, and members of the business community paid glowing tributes to a man whose legacy extended far beyond the industries he helped grow.
As news of his demise spread, messages of condolence poured in from across Goa.
Leaders from political, cultural, and business domains visited his residence to offer their respects. Many described him as a visionary, a humble leader, and a man whose quiet but firm presence had an enduring influence on the fabric of Goan society.
