Harshad Patel, one of the most respected figures in New Zealand’s Indian community and a man whose life was defined by service, music and quiet strength, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, surrounded by his family. He was 75.
Born on 11 August 1950 in Onjal, India, Harshadbhai moved to New Zealand as a young man and went on to make an extraordinary contribution to both his professional field and the wider community. A biochemist by training, he worked for many years with Watercare (and its previous iterations), helping to ensure the safety and quality of Auckland’s drinking water –a responsibility he undertook with deep commitment and pride.
Beyond his professional life, Harshadbhai’s heart beat to the rhythms of music and community. A consummate musician, he played the harmonium, sang beautifully, and had a natural gift for rhythm. His performances at community gatherings were more than entertainment: they were expressions of joy and connection that drew people together.
Harshad Patel was named the recipient of the Kiwi Indian Community Service Excellence Award 2019 at the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards.
A strong supporter of the performing arts, Harshadbhai was instrumental in setting up the Centre for Indian Performing Arts (CIPA) as an arm of the Auckland Indian Association at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre. He believed that music, dance and theatre were essential to preserving and sharing Indian culture in New Zealand, and he worked tirelessly to provide a platform for young and emerging artists.
His leadership and enthusiasm also helped transform Auckland’s Navratri dandiya celebrations into the city’s largest and most vibrant cultural festival; perhaps the biggest in New Zealand. He was one of the main driving forces behind its success, ensuring that every year the event grew in scale, energy and inclusiveness.
I last saw Harshadbhai at the Navratri dandiya nights at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre just a couple of weeks ago. He was determined to attend despite his ill health, and his presence that evening was deeply moving. Sitting close to the musicians on stage, tapping along to the beats and smiling as the hall filled with thousands of dancers, he seemed to draw strength from the very celebration he had nurtured for so many years.
Harshadbhai is survived by his beloved wife Pushpaben, his children Nilesh and Rupal, their spouses Meeta and Pretesh, and his adored grandchildren, Rayaan and Avaiya.
A funeral service to celebrate his life is being held today, (Tuesday, 14 October), at 3 pm at Morrisons Funeral Home, 220 Universal Drive, Henderson. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Cancer Society.
Harshadbhai Patel will be remembered not only as a community leader and musician but as a mentor to many at Indian diaspora organisations, a man of rare kindness and sincerity;someone whose legacy will continue to echo in every note of music and every act of service that keeps his spirit alive.
May the Lord grant sadgati to his Atma and the strength and forbearance to his family and dear ones to tide over this difficult time.
ISSUE
Leave a Comment