Satna Environmentalist To Perform Own ‘Death Rituals’ While Still Alive; Here’s Why
Satna environmentalist Ramlotan Kushwaha is organising his own Terahvi and Varshi rituals while alive. The move follows mockery he faced for pledging his body to medical research, with critics claiming he was avoiding funeral costs. Kushwaha, whose work was praised by PM Narendra Modi, aims to challenge social stigmas around body donation.
In a rare and symbolic move, a resident of Madhya Pradesh's Satna district has announced he will conduct his own Terahvi and Varshi - traditional Hindu post-death rituals - while still alive. Ramlotan Kushwaha, a recognised environmentalist from Atrabediya village, has scheduled the ceremonies for May 13. The decision comes as a direct response to social backlash he faced after pledging to donate his body to medical science.
Ramlotan Kushwaha's Response to Social Mockery
The unusual plan took shape after Kushwaha announced his intention to donate his body to the Government Medical College in Satna upon his passing. While the gesture was intended as a contribution to medical research, Kushwaha claims he was met with scepticism and mockery by some members of his community. Madhya Pradesh Weather Update: IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds in Jabalpur, Sagar and Other Districts; Temperatures Likely To Rise by 4 Degrees Celsius.
According to Kushwaha, critics suggested that his decision to donate his body was a ploy to save his family from the significant financial costs associated with traditional funeral rites. To counter these allegations, he decided to bear the expenses himself by organising the rituals in advance.
Rituals and Public Invitation
Kushwaha has treated the upcoming event with formal solemnity, printing traditional condolence-style invitation cards for the ceremonies. He has actively reached out to relatives, neighbours, and local acquaintances to attend the rituals later this week. Observers in the region view the move as a form of personal protest against the rigid social expectations surrounding death and the stigma sometimes associated with modern practices like body donation.
Ramlotan Kushwaha Is Recognised Environmentalist
Ramlotan Kushwaha is a well-known figure in Madhya Pradesh for his contributions to environmental conservation. He has dedicated years to preserving rare medicinal plants and indigenous crop varieties, maintaining a specialised garden that has drawn attention from across the state. His efforts have earned several high-profile accolades:
- National Recognition: Mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a broadcast of Mann Ki Baat.
- State Honours: Awarded a state biodiversity honour in Bhopal in 2024 for his work in preserving local flora. Madhya Pradesh Shocker: Woman Killed in Mandideep After Refusing To Become Accused’s ‘Second Wife’.
Community Reaction To Ramlotan Kushwaha's Decision
The announcement has sparked widespread discussion in the Uchehra region. While many villagers expressed surprise at the unconventional nature of the event, others have voiced support for Kushwaha's message regarding the importance of scientific donation over traditional expenditure. The ceremonies are expected to proceed as planned on Wednesday, serving as a unique intersection of personal conviction and cultural commentary.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 10, 2026 09:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).