Born: December 2, 1937

Born at Nandavi, District Raigad (Maharashtra). Obtained Master of Arts and Bachelor of Legislative Law (LLB) degrees from Mumbai University. Has been an Educationist and Industrialist. Starting as Municipal Councilor-Mumbai began his political journey through various positions in the state of Maharashtra and at the national level. Member-Maharashtra Legislative Council (3 terms), Mayor-Municipal Corporation Mumbai, Member-Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (two terms), Leader of Opposition and later of the House-Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Became the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Elected to the Lok Sabha and became the Union Cabinet Minister for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. Was elected as the Speaker, Lok Sabha. Was Chairman of the Conference of Presiding Officers of Legislative Bodies in India; Was also the President, Indian Parliamentary Group; National Group of Inter-Parliamentary Union; India Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Governing Council of the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies.

Closely associated with many educational and social organizations. Special interest in theatre, social service and promotion of sports, especially cricket.

While holding various positions, led delegations to countries in Asia, South-East Asia, Africa, East and West Europe and the USA.