An Orthodox priest from Kerala stepped beyond the confines of religion by organising Hindu funeral rites for a woman who had dutifully served his family for over 25 years. Fr. O J Jacob from Chottanikkara in Ernakulam district conducted the rites of Parvathy, aka Payamma, who had taken care of his daughter for over 25 years.
Payamma, who died at 88, came to Dr Jacob’s family to take care of his six-year-old daughter, Merin, after his wife died in 2000. She soon became a household member, taking care of the household and Merin. With no close relatives, the woman soon became the matriarch of the family.
When Merin got married nine years ago, Fr. Jacob and Payamma were left alone at the house.
Payamma, who battled age-related ailments, passed away on Sunday at Tata Hospital, Chottanikkara. Her body was brought back home soon after for the public to pay their respects.
Payamma’s relative Sajeev carried out her last rites at Eruveli Cemetery after her last rites, while Kadungamangalam church vicar Fr. Sebu Paul Vendrappilli led the prayer conducted in the Christian style before they bade adieu to Payamma.
