Jalaram Temple Pays Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Manjulaben Sood

Jalaram Mandir and Jalaram Charitable Trust join the people of Leicester in mourning the passing of Manjulaben Sood, Assistant Mayor and former Lord Mayor of Leicester.

We honour the life of a remarkable woman defined by service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to community. Over many years, the Temple and Trust were privileged to know Councillor Sood not only as a respected civic leader, but also as a trusted friend and guiding presence whose warmth, humility and genuine care for others were felt by all who met her.

A lifelong commitment to Leicester and its communities

Councillor Sood’s support for the Temple remained consistent through some of our most significant milestones — moments that continue to be woven into the history of Jalaram Mandir and the charitable work we carry out.

2006: Ram Katha at Rushey Mead

Morari Bapu delivered an eight-day Ram Katha at Rushey Mead, bringing together more than 10,000 devotees, dignitaries and senior public figures. Councillor Sood attended the Seven days Ram Katha during this landmark gathering were deeply reassuring for the community at the time.

2016: Inauguration of the Community Centre

In 2016, alongside Sir Peter Soulsby, Councillor Sood officially inaugurated the Jalaram Community Centre. Her name remains inscribed on the inaugural plaque at the entrance of the building, now known as the Virbai Maa Community Centre — a lasting reminder of her belief in the Temple’s charitable mission.

2022: The Queen’s Jubilee initiative

During the Queen’s Jubilee initiative in 2022, Councillor Sood planted a tree outside the Community Centre on behalf of Leicester City Council. We remember this as a meaningful symbol of unity, service and growth — values she upheld throughout her life.

2024: King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Most recently, in 2024, Councillor Sood joined us for the presentation of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service to Jalaram Charitable Trust. Trustees and volunteers recall the occasion as a proud and emotional moment, made all the more special by her presence and shared joy in celebrating voluntary service.

A moment of reflection with the Sood family

Following her cremation ceremony, Jalaram Mandir was deeply honoured to host a private lunch at the Temple’s Community Centre, attended by invited guests and members of the Sood family. It was a moment of quiet reflection, unity and respect — reflecting the values Councillor Sood lived by, and the deep esteem in which she was held.

A tribute from Jalaram Charitable Trust

Pramod Thakkar, Chair of the Board of Trustees of Jalaram Charitable Trust, said:

“Manjulaben Sood’s guidance, encouragement and quiet strength left a lasting imprint on our Temple and on the wider community. We feel truly honoured to have shared such a close association with her over many years. Her compassion and service will continue to inspire generations.”

Book of Condolence

A Book of Condolence has been placed at Jalaram Mandir, Narborough Road, Leicester, where members of the public, devotees, and all those whose lives were touched by Manjulaben Sood are welcome to leave messages, prayers and personal reflections in her memory.

Our prayers

Jalaram Mandir and Jalaram Charitable Trust offer prayers for her Atma to attain Satgati and eternal peace. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and all those mourning her loss. It remains an honour to remember and celebrate a life so generously lived.

Sunil Budheo was reappointed as an OP Trustee and spoke on behalf of Pramod Thakkar (Chair), who assisted and guided the Sood family in ensuring they had a private family funeral, followed by Prashadi at the Jalaram Virbai Maa Community Centre.