GUWAHATI: Breaking societal stereotypes, Dhritimala Deka has become an epitome of compassion and resilience. She has cremated over 300 bodies in the Navagraha Crematorium which has earned her the prestigious Assam Gaurav Award, a recognition of her exceptional service to the community.
Speaking to GPlus, Dhritimala Deka shared her story. "I started this initiative independently in 2010 when my maternal grandfather passed away. In the following six months, I faced the demise of my paternal grandfather. And then, once again in another six months, my paternal grandmother passed away. Within just 11 months, I lost all my grandparents, and that's when it deeply impacted me,” she said.
Deka continued, recounting the pivotal moment that led her to take up the cause of cremating bodies at Navagraha. "During that time, I went to the cremation ground to find solace and connect with their souls, but the experience was disheartening. I couldn't find their souls."
With her father being the primary caretaker of the cremation service, circumstances changed in 2011 when he became partially blind and bedridden. Determined to carry on the legacy, Dhritimala Deka stepped into her father's shoes and took up the responsibility of providing a dignified farewell to the departed souls.
However, it was in 2016 when Dhritimala was moved. "I witnessed a young boy, around 7 years old, who had lost his father. With only a couple of relatives present and no one to carry the body, that moment struck me. It became clear that more people were needed in the cremation ground, and since then, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and encouragement to continue this service."
In recognition of her outstanding service, she was conferred with the Assam Gaurav Award on March 24, 2023.
