Dadi Leela

Dadi Leela (born Leelavati Harchandani; 20 December 1916 14 September 2017; sometimes spelled Dadi Leelan) was a Pakistani educationist, music teacher, philanthropist, and a former member of Sindh provincial assembly known for her advocacy of women's education. She also contributed to Sindhi culture and literature. She was the oldest surviving amil of Sindh.

Early life and education She was born to Dewan Hotchand Wadhwani on 20 December 1916 in Bombay Presidency, British India (in modern-day Sindh). After her mother died, her two younger brothers migrated to India, and she was left alone in Pakistan where she spent her life. In 1954, she married Tulsi Das Harchandani, a civil surgeon, with whom she has a son.

Career She started her professional music career in 1940 after being appointed a music teacher at Teachers Training College in Hyderabad. Prior to her retirement in 1975, she continued participating in music and theatre besides education and Sindhi women rights. In 1936, she participated in all India music competition, hosted by DJ Government College Hyderabad. She sang a bhajan, leading her to win the contest with first position. She was also appointed inspector of girls school, the principal of Mira Girls High School Hirabad, Hyderabad and member of the Rotary Club. She also served as vice president of Senior Citizens Association.

Death She was suffering from chronic condition and died on 14 September 2017 in Hyderabad, Pakistan. She was cremated at Cremation Ground in Badin.