Challenging age-old social norms, daughter performs father’s last rites in Odisha

Girls are no less capable than boys-this was a belief senior journalist Shribatsa Jena's firmly lived by throughout his life at Kusupur village under Mahanga block in Cuttack district. He raised his two daughters with equity, dignity, and confidence, never allowing them to feel inferior in strength or ability.

Fate, however, intervened tragically when Shribatsa passed away in a road accident a few days ago, leaving behind his wife and two daughters. In a powerful moment that challenged long-standing social conventions, his younger daughter, Sasmita Jena, stepped forward to perform all the last rites of her father that were traditionally carried out by a son.

From shaving her head to lighting the funeral pyre and completing the post-funeral rituals, Sasmita, who is now working as an HR professional after completing MBA, took complete responsibility and performed every ceremony on her own. Her actions sent a strong message against gender discrimination, deeply rooted in society.

"My father never discriminated against me because I am a girl. He always believed that daughters are no less capable than sons. After his passing, everyone tried to stop me from performing his last rites and shaving my head, saying that it was not permitted for a girl in the Hindu religion. Despite the opposition, I was determined to do it. After all, who else could have fulfilled a daughter’s final duty to her father?" asked Sasmita Jena.

"We were a happy couple and never had a quarrel in all these 35 years. We provided our children with a good education and led a fulfilled, contented life together," said Shribatsa's wife, Sailabala Singh.

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As per reports, Shribatsa was a respected journalist in the local area, known for his progressive outlook and strong moral values. By stepping beyond age-old traditions, Sasmita not only fulfilled her duty as a daughter but also upheld the very values her father stood for. 

"Our father always taught us to respect everyone, both elders and those younger than us. He did so much for us throughout his life. Sadly, he left us before I ever had the opportunity to do something for him in return," said Shribatsa's elder daughter, Sanjukta Jena.