This month I have been writing each day on lessons learned from my dad as I reach the tenth anniversary of my dad’s passing.

Today, I am very pleased, and honoured to share a letter I received from a close family friend Narahari Joshi who kindly shared his memories of my dad. My dad’s name is Manhar, and I am deeply touched and humbled to read these beautiful words about my dad. It means a lot to me to know I am not the sole beneficiary of my father’s wisdom.

The letter from Narhari Joshi.

In the heart of our community work in Leeds, there’s a really wise person named Manhar Bhai. On this 30th December, it will be 10 years since he left us behind, we all miss him but at the same time, we all have had a share of his wisdom which he always parted without any selfish motives. He’s been like a guide, an older friend, and a source of inspiration for all of us. Today, as we celebrate the 10th anniversary since he said goodbye to all of us, we’re not just marking the time that’s passed, but we’re thinking about the valuable things he has taught us. Manhar Bhai has shared a lot of his experience and knowledge with us, and it’s been like a map helping us find our way in our community projects, especially getting our community united. When some of us started managing a prominent charitable trust within our community in Leeds, he told us that the real drive for community work should come from deep inside us. He warned us that not everyone will appreciate what we do, some might criticise us, and many will just go along with whatever is happening. But he said, we shouldn’t let the criticism get us down or the praise get us too excited. Instead, he encouraged us to stick to what motivates us from within. One thing that stuck with us is his advice on trusting our gut feelings, and this came from his experiences working with the Hindu community in Leeds. He had been through a lot, and his words were like a guidebook for us in dealing with challenges and making decisions. Manhar Bhai isn’t just a mentor; he’s like a father figure to all of us here. His kindness, patience, and constant support created a bond that goes beyond just being friends. In tough times, he was always there, reminding us that building a community is about sharing experiences and growing together. So, as we gather to celebrate Manhar Bhai’s life and contributions to our community in Leeds, let’s not just think about the time that’s gone by, but let’s be grateful for the important lessons he has given us. In his teachings, we find the simple secrets to building a strong community—being true to ourselves, staying strong, and caring about everyone’s well-being. Manhar Bhai’s legacy is not just about the years he’s lived but about the lasting inspiration he has left for all of us. Narahari JOSHI – Have known Manhar Bhai since 2003, and have missed him over the past 10 years.