Councillor Anjana Patel has been formally thanked for her service as Mayor of Harrow, with councillors describing her tenure as an amazing year in office.

The outgoing Mayor received widespread praise during the Annual Council meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, for her dedication, hard work, and positive impact on the community. During her time as Mayor, Councillor Patel championed a motto of kindness, caring and respect, and was noted for her hands-on approach and commitment to community events. She also organized events and activities that brought communities together, such as introducing Raksha Bandhan into the to unite the community into the council.

Councillor Paul Osborn proposed the vote of thanks, highlighting Councillor Patel's numerous engagements, including meeting the King, inaugurating the new council chamber, and celebrating the borough's 60th anniversary. During Harrow's 60th anniversary year, Councillor Patel stated, it has been a privilege not only to celebrate our borough's proud history, but also the incredible community spirit that continues to unite us across all backgrounds and generations. She also mentioned seeing the history of the borough and to celebrate that in relation to the anniversary. He noted her ability to connect with residents, stating, She's always smiling, she's always happy to have a photo taken with residents and the residents always keen to have a photo with her.

Echoing these sentiments, Councillor David Perry commended Councillor Patel's dedication, adding, The job that you did in the last year was superb. I'm certain that Mr. Mayor will do a very good job as well. But I'm afraid it's a hard act to follow.

Councillor Hitesh Karia also paid tribute, noting Councillor Patel's role as the first Tanzanian-born Hindu woman to become Mayor of Harrow. He highlighted her inspiration drawn from her guru, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who reminded us that in joy of others lies our own. That message has stayed with me throughout my mayoral ear and has reinforced the importance of serving others with humanity, compassion and unity. He also acknowledged her significant fundraising efforts, which raised over £32,000 for her chosen charities, We Are and Samaritans, making a real difference to many lives.

Councillor Patel, in her final address as Mayor, reflected on her remarkable and deeply meaningful year of service. She expressed gratitude to her family, the Mayor's office staff, and all Harrow Council staff for their support.

During the meeting, Councillor Yogesh Teli was elected as the new Mayor of Harrow for the 2026-2027 municipal year, with Councillor Mina Parmar appointed as his Deputy Mayor. As the newly elected Mayor, Councillor Teli stated, As a newly elected Mayor of Harrow, I will continue to serve and support this great community. It is my heartfelt belief that each one of us can make a difference can make a difference. Let us start today. His motto is the welfare of the guests here are the highest law, and he advised attendees to be brief in their speeches, indicating his priorities are service, support, and ensuring efficient meetings.

The meeting agenda and public reports pack can be found at Agenda frontsheet Wednesday 20-May-2026 18.30 Council and Public reports pack Wednesday 20-May-2026 18.30 Council.