Sepulchral silence pervades Mangalore, neighbourhood after crash

Saturday morning found India waking up to one of the worst aviation disasters it has seen in 14 years, with 152 passengers killed in the Air India air crash. Last rites were being performed in various churches, ghats and temples all over Mangalore.

There were 101 Muslim passengers, of whom only 12 belonged to Mangalore, and the rest hailed from the nearby districts. Their last rites were performed across three graveyards in Mangalore.

Families of the 35 Hindus who died in the air tragedy were performing special rites to help the souls, that died an unnatural and untimely death, attain nirvana. Special rites were being performed at various ghats in the city, with some Brahmin families of the deceased travelling to Nagaprastha and Kukke Subramanya to offer prayers to the snake god to propitiate the souls of their dear ones who met such a tragic end. Many other Hindu families were on their way to Gokarna to immerse the ashes of their family members after the last rites.

Nagaveedi, a priest at Mangalore, said, “There are rites that need to be performed for three days, and I have bookings for the next four days to perform several last rites and special ceremonies.”

Churches in Mangalore transcended the sectarian divides and held special masses for all the deceased, praying for the peaceful ascend of all those who died in the crash.

Special masses were held at Rosario Cathedral, Milagres Church, Cordel church and St Aloysius Chapel. A special mass was also held at the bishop’s house.