In Loving Memory of Councillor Manjulaben Sood

Assistant Mayor and Former Lord Mayor of Leicester

Manjulaben Sood will be remembered as a compassionate, selfless, and deeply committed servant of the Leicester community. In her official roles, she served with unwavering integrity and dedication; in her personal life, she was a trusted guide, a caring sister, and a source of strength to many.

The devotees, Trustees, and volunteers of Jalaram Mandir and the Jalaram Charitable Trust remain profoundly grateful for her years of steadfast support. Her journey with us was marked by significant milestones, from her early encouragement during the landmark 2006 Ram Katha at Rushey Mead, to the 2016 inauguration of the Jalaram Community Centre, which she officially opened alongside Sir Peter Soulsby.

Her commitment to representing all citizens was beautifully captured in 2022, when she joined us to plant a tree marking Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, ensuring the City Council was represented in this historic moment of unity and togetherness.

More recently, in 2024, I was honoured to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) on behalf of our charity. The award was presented by Michael Kapur OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, alongside Deputy Lieutenants Professor Sir Nilesh Samani and Dr. Nik Kotecha. Manjulaben’s pride in our charity receiving this prestigious honour was immense; she was joyful and congratulatory, truly sharing in the success of our volunteers.

Whether attending in an official capacity or simply as a friend, Manjulaben’s presence marked moments that will forever remain part of our collective memory. Her kindness, wisdom, and genuine concern for people of all backgrounds left an enduring impact. Her legacy of service and unity will continue to inspire future generations.

She will be dearly missed by me, the members of the Jalaram Temple, and the wider community. We will forever remember her with respect, gratitude, and affection.

Tribute and Book of Condolence

To honour Manjulaben’s life and service, Jalaram Mandir will be holding a tribute, and a Book of Condolence will be available for members of the community to share messages, memories, and prayers. We welcome all who wish to pay their respects and join us in remembering her remarkable contribution to Leicester.

With deepest condolences,

Pramod ThakkarChair

Board of Trustees