by Sunil Bajpai
Kanpur: Samaj Kalyan Seva Samiti, a charitable organization in Kanpur, has cremated over 16,000 unclaimed bodies, ensuring each one receives a respectful farewell according to its respective religion. This effort reflects the organization’s belief that every soul, no matter their circumstances, deserves a dignified send-off.
The organization recently concluded a five-day campaign aimed at carrying unclaimed bodies, drawing significant community involvement, especially from women. On the final day, hundreds of women from the Buddhist community took part in a solemn procession. They prayed to Tathagata Gautam Buddha and other deities for the peace of the departed souls.
As the procession made its way through the streets, mourners showered flowers on the bodies, which stretched nearly a kilometer from the post-mortem center. Chanting “Hey Manav Tu Mukh Se Bol Buddham Sharanam Gachhami Dhammam Sharanam Gachhami Sangham Sharanam Gachhami,” the participants expressed reverence for the departed.
In a unique tradition, women also took part in the “shoulder donation” campaign, exchanging shoulders to help carry the deceased to their final resting place.
Dhaniram Panther, Secretary of the Samaj Kalyan Seva Samiti, addressed the participants, noting that people of all religions have actively contributed to this campaign for the past 15 years. He also highlighted the organization’s efforts to prevent pollution of the Ganga River, ensuring that these cremations are carried out with dignity and respect for both the departed and the environment.
The campaign’s commitment to honoring unclaimed bodies while preserving the sanctity of the Ganga River serves as a powerful reminder of shared human compassion. Women like Manisha Panther, Anita Jaiswar, Aarti Rao, Seema Sankhwar, and many others participated, showing solidarity and contributing to this meaningful initiative.
