Rare bond of love and devotion ends in tragedy in Himachal’s Jah village
Munish Sood
MANDI: In a poignant tale of love, duty and loss, Jah village in Bhawarnj sub-division of Hamirpur district witnessed a tragedy that has left the entire community heartbroken. Ramesha Devi, a devoted daughter-in-law, passed away shortly after the death of her beloved mother-in-law, Damodari Devi, a story that has touched hearts for the rare, selfless bond it reveals.
Ramesha, 59, battled a heart condition herself but never wavered in her devotion to her family. She spent her days caring for her ailing husband, Kashmir, and her elderly mother-in-law, Damodari Devi, exemplifying what many describe as an “ideal daughter-in-law.”
On the morning of the tragedy, Damodari Devi passed away around 7 am. Despite her own frailty, Ramesha courageously gathered the Panchamrit (sacred ritual mixture) and all materials for the last rites, placing the panchamrit in her mother-in-law’s mouth and performing every ritual with calm determination. For nearly 10 minutes, she held back her grief, embodying devotion and love that moved all who witnessed her actions.
However, when her mother-in-law’s body was lifted for the final journey, Ramesha’s grief overwhelmed her. She cried out, “Oh my mother, what has happened?” and collapsed. Rushed to Bhawarnj hospital, doctors confirmed that she had passed away shortly before arrival.
Villagers and family members say this rare story of a daughter-in-law and mother-in-law bound by genuine affection is something they had never seen before. Former Jahu panchayat pradhan Roshan Lal said, “This level of love and dedication between a daughter-in-law and mother-in-law is extraordinary. It is a lesson for all of us about selflessness and humanity.”
The tragedy has left Ramesha’s son, Bunti, devastated. He had been returning from Delhi upon hearing of his grandmother’s death, only to learn that he had also lost his mother upon reaching home.
Bhawarnj MLA Suresh Kumar expressed deep sorrow, noting that the simultaneous loss of both women is a profound blow to the family and the village. Panchayat leaders and villagers alike have expressed heartfelt condolences, praying that both souls find eternal peace.
