Daijiworld Media Network - Beltangady (MS)

Beltangady, Apr 23: Most of the Hindu burial grounds across the state are in dilapidated condition. Shri Kshethra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) is renovating them since many years. So far 550 Hindu burial grounds are given a new look and better facilities under this project. In the present fiscal, Rs one crore is sanctioned for the same and there a plan is formed to revive 40 Hindu burial grounds.

Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, Dr Veerendra Heggade had started this scheme in every village in order to conduct the last rites of Hindus in a proper manner. The temple of Dharmasthala provides Rs 2.50 lac to build a chamber for burning the mortal remains as well as other equipment.

The crematorium that is purchased with the help of Dharmasthala temple funds, is made of special iron. It weighs 1.2 tonnes. This chamber is covered from inside, with iron plates that are manufactures specially. The dimensions of the chamber is 24 inches in length, 39 inches in breadth and 31 inches in height.

Two rows of wood for burning is placed on the gratings that are below. Over that the mortal remains are kept and three rows of wood for burning are placed on the mortal remains to be cremated. At the most 250 to 300 kg wood is required for this purpose. In the local custom 800 to 1,000 kg of wood was required to cremate the mortal remains. The project of Dharmasthala saves burning wood as well as maintains cleanliness.

This project also builds a suitable roof to protect from sun, rain and wind. It also installs room for stocking the burning wood, arrangement for bath and washrooms and a room for offering pooja.

So far under this project, Dr D Veerendra Heggade has spent Rs 6.75 crore for the renovation of 550 Hindu burial grounds throughout the state. If the local participation is considered, so far Rs 50 crore is spent on this work.