In Dheerji ka Kheda village in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, the entire village performed the last rites of a monkey, who was an integral part of the temple, with Vedic rituals. Hundreds of people participated in a community feast and paid tribute in his memory.
Chittorgarh: In Dheerji ka Kheda village of Chittorgarh district in Rajasthan, the entire village performed the last rites of a monkey, who had been a part of the temple for two years, according to Vedic traditions. A funeral procession was taken out with drums, and hundreds of people participated in a community feast. The monkey used to join the daily temple prayers, play with children, and had become a favorite among the villagers due to its calm demeanor. The villagers bid farewell to it with reverence and respect, considering it an embodiment of Lord Hanuman.
Monkey's Final Journey Performed with Vedic Chants
Following the monkey's death, the villagers adorned its bier and carried it in a procession throughout the village. During this time, amidst the sound of drums, people kept offering their last respects with folded hands. The funeral procession concluded in front of the same temple where the monkey used to sit daily and spend time with devotees.
The villagers stated that they followed Vedic chants in this funeral to bid it a respectful farewell. People viewed this not merely as the death of an animal, but as the passing of a symbol of Lord Hanuman.
Pagri Ceremony Performed After Last Rites
Eleven individuals from the village, considered devotees of Lord Hanuman, underwent a tonsure ceremony for the monkey. Subsequently, its ashes were immersed in Matrikundiya. After the funeral rites, the 'Pagri' ceremony was performed, and a community feast was organized. Hundreds of people attended this feast and paid their tributes to the monkey.
Local residents mentioned that such an event signifies their reverence and affection for the monkey. They accorded it the same importance as the funeral of a family member.
Monkey Had Been Residing at Khakal Devji Temple for Two Years
Villagers shared that this monkey had come and settled at the Khakal Devji temple approximately two years ago. It would participate in the daily temple prayers, sit with devotees, and play with children. Its nature was calm and friendly.
The villagers believed this monkey to be an embodiment of Lord Hanuman. It never harmed anyone, nor did it ever snatch or injure anyone. For this reason, there was an atmosphere of grief throughout the village upon its death, and it was given a respectful final farewell.
Monkey Became Part of the Temple and Village Culture
Eleven villagers, including Mukesh Suthar, Mansingh, Bhagwat Singh, Bherulal Gurjar, and Bablu Sen, participated in the tonsure ceremony as per tradition. They stated that this monkey was not just an animal, but had become a part of the temple and the village's culture.
Local people, viewing it as a manifestation of Lord Hanuman, participated in its funeral with great enthusiasm and reverence. This event also demonstrated the unity and religious faith within the village.
