Gautam Gambhir performs last rites of domestic help amid lockdown
Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir performed the last rites of his deceased domestic help in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. Reportedly, her mortal remains could not be sent to her home in Odisha due to nationwide lockdown. In a tweet, Gambhir paid a tribute to his employee Saraswati Patra, who had been working at his residence for the past six years. Here is more.
Saraswati was family, says Gambhir
Taking care of my little one can never be domestic help. She was family. Performing her last rites was my duty. Always believed in dignity irrespective of caste, creed, religion, social status. Only way to create better society. That's my idea of India," wrote Gambhir.
Here is what Gambhir wrote on Twitter
Saraswati had a history of diabetes and blood pressure
As per media reports in Odisha, Saraswati Patra was a resident of Kusunpur village within Jajpur. She was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital a few days ago after battling with diabetes and high blood pressure for a long period. However, she breathed her last while undergoing treatment on April 21. Gambhir had contacted with Saraswati's family after she fell ill.
Gambhir employed Saraswati as domestic help
Saraswati's brother Prafulla Patra described how the former Indian cricketer helped her a few years ago. "My sister had gone to New Delhi to attend a seminar as a delegate in 2013. During her stay there, she met an Odia woman who was close to Gambhir," he said. He added, "She took my sister to the cricketer who engaged her as his domestic help."
Dharmendra Pradhan hailed Gambhir for his efforts
Union Minister of Petroleum and Steel Dharmendra Pradhan lauded Gambhir for his humanitarian gesture. "Taking care of Saraswati throughout the course of her illness, he also ensured her dignity in death by performing her last rites," he wrote on Twitter. He added, "His act of compassion will enliven the faith in humanity for millions of poor, who are working far from their home."
