Umerkote,28th Aug 2025: In a rare and courageous gesture, a daughter today performed the last rites of her mother in Umerkote, setting an example for society.
Kuntala Kumari Satapathy (56), wife of senior journalist Harihar Satapathy, passed away after prolonged illness. With no sons in the family, there was initial concern over who would perform the funeral rites. At this moment, the younger daughter Lopamudra, an unmarried student, came forward and declared, “I will do it. Even if I have no brother, I am both your son and daughter.”
With family consent, Lopamudra lit the funeral pyre at the crematorium, leaving many of those present deeply moved. Traditionally, women attend cremations but rarely perform the mukhagni (ritual fire). Lopamudra’s act of courage marked a historic moment in Umerkote.
She further stated that she would take full responsibility for all future religious duties of her late mother.
The deceased, Kuntala Kumari, was known as a deeply religious woman, associated with the Gayatri Parivar, and had worked tirelessly to spread Hindu teachings across villages. She was also instrumental in establishing Gayatri Dharma activities in Umerkote.
News of her demise spread sorrow across the town. A grand funeral procession was taken out from Pendarani Temple to the crematorium, where the last rites were performed. Distinguished citizens of the town, along with many members of the Gayatri Parivar, attended the final journey.
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