Tributes to 'luminous presence' in Hindu community

Tributes have been paid to a leading figure in Derby's Hindu community.

Raj Kumar Bali, 89, who was "pivotal" in the founding of both the city's Multi-Faith Centre and the Geeta Bhawan Hindu Temple, died on 7 July.

He was awarded an MBE in the 2014 New Year's Honours list for services to interfaith relations in Derby and the East Midlands.

A statement from the temple said Mr Bali, who came to Derby in 1974 after his family's expulsion from Uganda, "leaves behind a legacy of selfless service and deep commitment to the community".

Prof Jonathan Powers, fellow honorary vice-president at the Multi-Faith Centre, said Mr Bali had been "a constant, luminous presence" in setting up the centre at the University of Derby's Kedleston Road site.

He added: "He is someone who will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

"He would encourage us to accept the natural rhythm of existence but also encourage us to strive to keep the flame of enlightenment alive."

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