Officials have confirmed that an Indian man from the northern state of Mizoram, who is thought to have led the “world’s largest family,” has died. He died at the age of 76, leaving behind 39 wives, 94 children, and 33 grandchildren.

Ziona Chana, 76, who headed a Christian Sect was diabetic and had high blood pressure. For three days, he was receiving treatment at his home in Baktawng village. But his health worsened, and he was transported to the hospital, where he was declared dead, according to Hospital Director Dr. Lalrintluanga Zahau.

His father, Chana Pawl, created the Chana Pawl sect in 1942. It has roughly 2,000 members, the majority of whom live in Baktawang village in Mizoram. 

Chana’s death was confirmed on Twitter by Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga. Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to be the world’s largest family, with 38 women and 89 offspring, was laid to rest with a heavy heart in #Mizoram, he said. 

After his grandpa Khuangtuaha was banished from Hmawngkawn village in 1942, Zion-a founded the Chana Pawl or Chhuanthar sect, which he commanded. His family has lived in Baktawng village, around 55 kilometers from Aizawl, since then. 

His son Chana, who was the father of Zion-a, succeeded Khuangtuaha. Because to the family, Mizoram and Baktawng Tlangnuam have become key tourist destinations, according to the chief minister. Chana’s death is a “very great loss to everyone,” according to Lal Thanhawla, the former chief minister of Mizoram and a top Congress official. 

He said, “The family is incredibly disciplined, and there is a lot to learn from them.” According to stories, Chana married his first wife when he was 17 years old in 1959, and he once married ten wives in a single year. 

His most recent marriage occurred in 2004 to a 25-year-old woman. Chief Minister Zoramthanga, state Congress chief Lal Thanhawla, and Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) leader Lalduhoma have condoled Zion-a”s death. “With heavy heart, Mizoram bid farewell to Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to head the world’s largest family…Rest in Peace Sir,” the chief minister tweeted.