Priti Joshi – Chair
Priti Joshi is an exceptional professional who thrives in multiple domains as a Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, and Local Borough Councillor. With a remarkable blend of experience and expertise, Priti brings an unmatched level of skill and enthusiasm to each of her endeavours.
Her unwavering dedication to community service and advocacy shines through in everything she does. Priti’s profound commitment and effective approach have earned her the trust of the local community, making her a highly respected representative. Whether it’s her extensive business knowledge, entrepreneurial mindset, or unwavering dedication to public service, Priti’s contributions have a significant impact on both the business world and the local community. At the core of Priti’s vision for OWHC is the creation of an inclusive and thriving community. She envisions a space where Hindus from diverse backgrounds can come together, collaborate, and achieve great things. Priti is deeply committed to ensuring that OWHC remains at the forefront of innovative approaches to education, promotion, and celebration of the diversity and inclusivity of Sanatan Dharma, the eternal principles of Hinduism.
Rajeshri Parmar – Vice Chair
Rajeshri Parmar is a dedicated professional working alongside her husband in their thriving property business. With nearly 18 months as a valued Board member of the Oadby and Wigston Hindu Community, she actively contributes to community growth. Rajeshri plays an integral role in organising vibrant Navratri and Holi celebrations in Oadby, showcasing her commitment, professionalism, organisational skills, and unwavering dedication. She is a valued team member for both her business and the Hindu community she serves. Rajeshri’s vision is to empower our younger generation and to equip them with knowledge, wisdom and confidence to achieve success both spiritually and physically through the practice of Sanatan Dharma.
Nidhi Rupa Joshi – Secretary
secretary@owhc.org.uk
Rupa is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse skill set encompassing business strategy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and public service. As a Business Strategist, she demonstrates exceptional proficiency in formulating effective plans, analysing market dynamics, and delivering innovative solutions to enhance business performance. Through the strategic application of NLP techniques, Rupa empowers individuals and teams, fostering their growth and development.
In addition to her role as a Local Borough Councillor, Rupa serves on the advisory board of several international companies, where she provides invaluable insights and guidance. Her unwavering dedication to sustainable growth, nurturing strong relationships, and making positive societal contributions distinguishes her within her field. Rupa is a staunch advocate for creating inclusive environments where individuals can thrive. She is particularly passionate about women’s empowerment and providing the younger generation with stability to cultivate their confidence and explore their cultural heritage in a secure and nurturing setting. Her ultimate vision is to foster a community that supports and nurtures one another, thereby promoting mutual growth and well-being.
Bhavna Shah – Treasurer
treasurer@owhc.org.uk
Bhavna is a highly experienced Accounts Preparation Specialist adept at managing online and international business accounts. With seven years of dedicated service to the OWHC, including six years as treasurer, she ensures robust financial operations. Bhavna’s commitment to community well-being shines through her leadership in organising and teaching yoga classes, promoting balance and a healthy lifestyle. As the culture and heritage portfolio holder for Oshwal UK (Leicester branch), she orchestrates engaging events and educational trips to preserve our community’s rich heritage. Combining her expertise in accounting, community engagement, and event management, Bhavna strives to foster financial stability, community well-being, and cultural heritage awareness.
Rakesh Chander – Assistant Secretary
Meet Rakesh, a driven entrepreneur with a successful textile manufacturing background. Now retired, he remains passionate about business, seeking new opportunities in online commerce. Rakesh’s commitment extends beyond his professional life. He actively engages in community initiatives and recently participated in local elections to improve his community. One of Rakesh’s passions is advancing Oadby and Wigston Hindu Community making it more appealing and accessible to the younger generation. He believes in harnessing the power of social media to connect and engage with today’s dynamic individuals. Rakesh’s dedication to entrepreneurship, community involvement, and the advancement of OWHC showcases his remarkable character. With a visionary mindset, he continues to make a lasting impact on business and society.
Bhavesh Sanghani – Assistant Treasurer
Introducing Bhavesh Sanghani: a devoted family man, passionate Leicester City and Indian Cricket follower, and the Director of BRS Accounting Services Ltd specialising in supporting start-up businesses. Notably, Bhavesh excels in assisting not-for-profit organisations, including charities and Community Investment Companies (CIC), helping them identify grant funding opportunities. Bhavesh’s contributions go beyond his professional endeavours. He has actively held numerous voluntary positions, and serves as a Business Mentor for the Princes Trust. Currently, Bhavesh Sanghani undertakes multiple philanthropic responsibilities alongside leading the Oadby and Wigston Business Support Group, which boasts a remarkable membership of 150 members.
Committee Members
Arunaben Deva
Aruna Deva is an accomplished Human Resources/Mobility professional at a multinational firm in Leicester. She fearlessly embraced working abroad and skillfully leverages her extensive HR and UK immigration expertise to support colleagues and leaders. Trained as a Mental Health First Aider, Aruna provides assistance in demanding mental situations. Committed to community unity, she selflessly contributes to a global non-profit. An avid learner, she’s taken up Lawn Tennis and swimming, while actively engaging in Sunday walks with the Leicester Asian Rambling Group (LARG).
Dushyant Tanna
Dushyant Tanna, a seasoned solicitor with over 34 years of experience, previously held the esteemed position of leading Tanna & Co. Solicitors in Belgrave for a remarkable 26- year duration. Presently, he contributes his expertise as a consultant at Sarah Franklin Solicitors, where he specialises in areas such as Wills, Probate, Conveyancing, and litigation. Having been a resident of Oadby since 1992, his engagement extends beyond his legal career. Notably, he has undertaken governance roles in five educational institutions, assumed a leadership role within the Lionheart Educational Trust, and played an instrumental part in the former Lohana Youth League. Furthermore, his altruistic endeavours encompass volunteering with the Midland Langar Seva. Demonstrating his diverse interests, Dushyant is also an avid trekking enthusiast, having successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro in 2010. A staunch advocate for the active involvement of young Hindus within Oadby and Wigston’s community, he envisions a robust and enduring presence for the future.
Hitesh Pujara
Hitesh Pujara, a highly respected Oadby resident and Chair Trustee of PCF (Charity Registration No. 1171969). In 2017, driven by a philanthropic vision, he founded this local charity to uplift the community through impactful fundraising. With a focus on improving the quality of life for Oadby’s elderly, Hitesh fosters social well-being. Through leadership in collaborations and local initiatives, he enhances senior well-being and communal unity. Hitesh’s dedication leaves a lasting positive influence in and beyond Oadby.
Kanti Somani
A Leicester resident of 60 years, Kantibhai is a Chartered Certified Accountant with experience as a Financial Accountant at prominent companies such as Imperial Typewriters, British Gas, and OTIS. He managed a successful post office for three decades, formed Prity Ices and currently serves as the Financial Director of his family enterprise, focusing on Care Homes, Pharmacies, and properties. Kantibhai’s community contributions in Leicester encompass significant roles in temples, including Shree Jalaram Mandir, Shree Hindu Mandir, Ram Mandir where he was secretary and treasurer as well as a 10 year tenure as secretary and treasurer of Oadby and Wigston Hindu Community. He has demonstrated unwavering dedication to community welfare and charitable causes, raising funds both locally and internationally for cancer patients.
Kirti Rughani
Kirti Rughani, a consistent presence at OWHC since its inception, has capably served two terms as Assistant Secretary. Her recent retirement from Leicester City Council, where she managed diverse customer engagement services, underscores her professional expertise. As a founder member of the “Janki Mandal” Bhajan group, she makes dynamic contributions at OWHC events, particularly during Ram Navami and Janmashtami celebrations. Beyond this, her commitment to the Hindu community is evident through active participation in seva activities at Ram Mandir. Currently, she skillfully coordinates Prathna Sabha for Leicester Lohana Mahaian CIO’s bereavement committee. Her forward- looking vision encompasses establishing an independent Community Centre for OWHC members, reflecting her deep pride in her Hindu heritage.
Kusum Somani
Kusumben is a former post mistress and has been associated with OWHC since its inception, contributing to auspicious events like Ram Navami and Janmashtami. She organised OWHC’s inaugural Diwali Charity event with the support from family and friends, the event was held at the Stage Hotel. She served as Assistant Secretary at Ram Mandir as an assistant secretary for 4 years, and then served a further 6 years as secretary. Kusumben was a committee member for 6 years at Jalaram Mandir, a lifetime member of Sanatan Mandir, and volunteers at various temples and Gudwaras in Leicester, preparing meals for devotees, she has also spent 5 years as part of the catering team at Shreeji Dham Haveli. She founded the Saraswati Bhajan Group, singing for charitable and private organisations nationwide, including renowned kathakars like Shree Ramesh Bhai Oza and Pujya Moraribapu. Kusumben remains deeply committed to volunteering.
Madhu Chapaneri
Introducing Madhuben Chapaneri, a dedicated advocate for preserving Sanatan Dharmic culture and literature. An accomplished writer, she has authored three books, including the impactful “Silent Tears” deftly intertwining her personal journey with her late husband’s memory. With over two decades of experience in care homes, Madhuben exhibits a genuine commitment to the well-being of the elderly and disabled. Demonstrating her unwavering community support, she generously volunteers her culinary skills to cook at various community group events. Her central objectives encompass the promotion of Sanatan dharma, the cultivation of unity, and the preservation of traditions. Join her in the profound pursuit of empowering the Hindu Community.
Paresh Parmar
Paresh is a certified Accountant who has assumed the position of Managing Director within his family business specialising in property development. He demonstrates a strong dedication to his responsibilities, previously providing consultation services to housing associations. Beyond his professional commitments, Paresh is deeply engaged in philanthropic pursuits, actively supporting the education of underprivileged children and contributing to orphanages in India.
Pratibha Gadhia
Pratibha joined a local architecture firm in 1972, leading its growth from 5 to 100+ members. She retired as Finance Administrator in 2017 after 44 years. In retirement, she volunteered with organisations including the Loros Shop, Shreeji Dham Haveli, and Jalaram Sadavrat.
Her lasting community commitment is seen through her active role in the Janki Mandal Bhajan group since the 1990s. The group sang bhajans and raised funds for local causes, including Leicester Royal Infirmary’s neonatal ward. For 15+ years, she has been instrumental in OWHC, notably organising Navratri and Holi events. Her strong Hindu pride and desire to inspire youth fuel her dedication.Outside of these roles, she spends time with family, walks her dog, and maintains her well-being through Yoga and aerobics.
Sailesh Tailor
Sailesh Tailor brings to the table extensive expertise as a software developer/consultant, having strategically devised solutions for prominent retail players throughout Europe, South Africa, USA, and Canada. His steadfast connection with OWHC spans an impressive decade, during which he has played a pivotal role in skillfully managing our yoga classes and curating various events. His fervent ambition is to elevate these initiatives by introducing an even wider range of fitness and mental wellbeing experiences, underscoring his dedication to holistic well-being within our community.