The mortal remains of martyr Akshay Kapoor, a soldier of the Indian Army, were laid to rest with full military honours in his native Bagni village, near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, on Monday (December 9, 2024).
The 29-year-old soldier had passed away from a cardiac arrest on Friday while serving in Arunachal Pradesh.
Akshay’s body arrived at his ancestral home on Monday morning, four days after his demise.
Hundreds gather to pay last respects
His grieving wife, married just two months ago, was inconsolable as she bid a final farewell to her husband dressed in bridal attire. The scene left everyone in tears as the family and the community mourned the loss of a brave soul.
Akshay’s mother adorned his coffin with a garland made of currency notes as a symbol of love and respect. His sister urged everyone present to salute her brother for his sacrifice. The air echoed with patriotic slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Akshay Kapoor Amar Rahe,” as hundreds gathered to pay their respects.
Final rites performed by Akshay’s elder brother
The final rites were performed by Akshay’s elder brother, who lit the funeral pyre. District administration officials, local leaders and a large number of villagers were present to honour the fallen hero.
Notable attendees included MLA Sudhir Sharma, Congress leader Devendra Jaggi and former MLA Vishal Nehria, who joined the grieving family in offering their condolences.
Akshay Kapoor, a soldier with the Dogra Battalion, had been serving in Arunachal Pradesh when he suffered a fatal heart attack. News of his demise sent shockwaves through the village, with relatives, friends and neighbours pouring in since Friday to console the family.
