Bhadrak, Feb 17: A somber atmosphere engulfed the village following the death of a 'revered' monkey. Just as human funerals are conducted with respect, the villagers and teachers of the local school came together to perform the final rites of the deceased animal in Elakha village under the Bhadrak Municipality.

The monkey had been seen wandering in the village for many years, surviving on the food provided by the locals. The villagers, considering the monkey as an incarnation of Lord Hanuman, even worshipped it. However, its sudden death yesterday left the entire village in mourning.

In a heartfelt tribute, the villagers placed the monkey’s body on a decorated cart, adorned it with flower garlands, and conducted a procession through the village while singing devotional hymns and playing traditional instruments like the mridangam, bells, and cymbals. Later, they dug a burial site near the village and performed its funeral just as they would for a human being. They observed the death ritual for 10 days as per Hindu customs.

This deep reverence stems from the villagers’ devotion to Lord Hanuman, and the monkey’s demise has left them heartbroken. Every day, different villagers would offer it bananas, cooked rice, and various fruits. The monkey had never harmed anyone and had become an integral part of village life.

The unique funeral of the monkey has become a widely discussed topic, reflecting the villagers' profound compassion and respect for animals.

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