Kailash Joshi was called the "saint of politics" and served as the state's chief minister from 1977-1978
Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Kailash Joshi died at a private hospital in Bhopal on Sunday after prolonged illness, a family member said. He was 90.
"He breathed his last at the Bansal Hospital in Bhopal," his son and former state minister Deepak Joshi told PTI.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief at Kailash Joshi's death and lauded his contribution towards strengthening the Jan Sangh and the BJP.
In a tweet, PM Modi said: "Kailash Joshi Ji was a stalwart who made a strong contribution towards Madhya Pradesh's growth. He worked hard to strengthen Jan Sangh and BJP in Central India."
"He made a mark as an effective legislator. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti," he tweeted.
The former chief minister is survived by three sons and three daughters. His wife died a few months back, a source said.
Senior BJP leader and former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reached the hospital soon after receiving news of Mr Joshi's death.
Born on July 14, 1929, Kailash Joshi, who was called the "saint of politics", served as the state's chief minister from 1977 to 1978.
He was elected MLA for eight terms and also served as member of both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.