Soonawalla’s stewardship

Died: Framji Minocher Soonawalla, 81, former president of the Lucknow Parsi Anjuman, on August 17, 2010 in Lucknow following cardiac arrest.

Respected for his knowledge, humility and compassion, Soonawalla was actively involved in the affairs of the Lucknow Parsi Anjuman for many years, notes a write-up forwarded to Parsiana. At a condolence meeting convened by the Anjuman it was regretted that Lucknow will not be the same after his passing. The Lucknow Anjuman, under his stewardship, maintained community properties. The Anjuman owned Parakh Bagh that included a prayer hall, mobed’s quarters, dharamshala (four rooms) and 15 residential flats for the community; as also Hormazd Bagh, an aramgah with a ravangah building (constructed in 1872 but renovated in 1963-64 after it was submerged in the devastating flood of 1960) and 20 outhouses.

Framji Soona-walla: Lucknow leader

One of the few Indians who enjoyed the privilege of being made a member of the Royal Aeronautical Society, after working for five years in the UK he returned to India to work for the ministry of defence and later Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Lucknow. At his workplace he was respected "for his brilliance as well as his upright honesty,” reveals his wife Roda. Subsequent to his retirement he chose to teach quality management at the Lucknow University.

His father Mino­cher who was a physics professor at Jaipur University did not send the son, born in Karachi, to school "as there were no appropriate schools in Jaipur at that time. He was instead tutored privately at home,” mentions Framji’s son Jamshed. After graduating from the Jaipur University, Framji did his postgraduation in aeronautical engineering from UK.

The amiable aeronautical engineer is survived by his wife Roda, sons Jamshed and Cyrus, sister Zarine Baria and brother Dr Noshir.