Raygada Raygada In a unique and heartfelt gesture to overcome the absence of her deceased husband, a woman has installed a silicone statue of him in their home. Not only that, she also performed a prana pratistha (ritual to invoke life into an idol) through traditional Hindu rituals, conducted by a priest with chanting of mantras. Sagarika Ray, wife of Dr. Samir Ray from Muniguda in Rayagada district, is now the center of discussion for this unconventional step.
According to sources, Dr. Samir Ray, originally from West Bengal, had been residing in Muniguda for many years and was known for traveling from village to village treating people for various ailments. However, two years ago, he suddenly fell ill. Despite being rushed to the hospital by his family, he passed away during treatment.
Following his death, his wife, son, and daughter were devastated and felt helpless in their large house without him. This led Sagarika to decide to install a statue of her husband at home to fill the emotional void.
Near the statue of the late Dr. Samir Ray, daily prayers and rituals are now being performed, including the prana pratistha. To make this happen, Sagarika even sold her gold jewelry and took a loan to afford the creation of the silicone statue, which was completed two years after her husband’s passing.
Sagarika and her children now say they feel his presence and peace in the house. The prana pratistha was conducted following Hindu traditions by local priest Nikunja Satapathy.
After her husband’s demise, Sagarika started a small medical store to sustain her family. She has also dedicated herself to educating her two children and fulfilling her late husband’s dreams.