In an inspiring act of unity, a Muslim family ensures Hindu rituals are followed for the 90-year-old woman in Mallar village
Team Clarion
BENGALURU – In a heartwarming display of communal harmony, a Muslim family took the initiative to perform the last rites of 90-year-old Janaki Pujari, a Hindu woman who passed away in Mallar village near Kaup in Karnataka’s Udupi district. The family ensured her final farewell was conducted according to Hindu rituals, honouring her wishes and traditions.
Janaki had been living with Rafiq Abdul Khader, a Muslim resident and employee of a private company in Udupi, at his home in Sunshine Layout for the past 10 years. After the death of her husband, she had moved in with Rafiq’s mother in Mumbai, where she lived as a close family member. During this time, Janaki lost touch with her relatives, including her son, Shekhar Vithal, who lived separately.
Rafiq shared the details of the bond his family had with Janaki, saying, “Janaki was with us as a family member since I was a kid. In fact, her son had come to visit his mother a week ago when she was in a critical condition. After Janaki’s death, I informed him and asked him to come to perform his mother’s last rites as per Hindu tradition.”
Rafiq’s family made all the arrangements for her final rites last week at Rudra Bhoomi in Kaup ensuring that everything was in accordance with Hindu customs. Rafiq’s friend, Ramesh Pujari, also shared that Janaki’s son and her granddaughter attended the funeral, marking a poignant moment for the family.
In a touching gesture of respect, Rafiq’s neighbour Ibrahim, Kaup town municipality chairperson Harinakshi Devadiga, and several villagers attended the funeral, further demonstrating the spirit of togetherness in the community.
As a mark of respect, Janaki’s 13th-day rituals will also be performed with the participation of her son, in line with Hindu customs. Rafiq’s efforts in honouring Janaki’s life and rituals serve as a powerful example of compassion and unity across religious boundaries.
