Khordha woman performs her father’s last rites, breaks gender norms by conducting tonsuring ritual as well

A young woman from Balianta’s Sarkana village in Odisha’s Khordha district has drawn attention for performing the last rites of her father, including rituals traditionally undertaken by sons. Her actions have been widely noted in the locality as a reflection of changing social norms, where daughters are increasingly taking on responsibilities once considered exclusive to male members of the family.

Performed Mukhaagni at Swargadwar

According to reports, Deeptilata Mohanty, a resident of Sarkana village, performed the mukhaagni for her father Sharata Mohanty, who passed away on December 1. With no son in the family, Deeptilata carried out the cremation rituals at Swargadwar.

Sharata Mohanty is survived by two daughters, Preeti, the elder daughter who is married and lives with her in-laws, and Deeptilata, who had been residing with her parents.

Observed All Mourning Rituals

Following the cremation, Deeptilata strictly observed all prescribed mourning rituals. She offered the daily handi (ritual meal), performed the customary evening rites, and followed the purification practices over the subsequent days without any deviation.

On the tenth day of the mourning period, Deeptilata underwent tonsuring, a ritual traditionally performed by sons. She also performed the breaking of the handi, further completing the rites associated with the period of bereavement.

Villagers Appreciate Daughter’s Decision

Though uncommon, Deeptilata’s decision met with no opposition from the community. Instead, villagers and neighbours appreciated her commitment to the rituals and acknowledged her role in fulfilling her family responsibilities with dignity.

Family Expresses Support and Pride

Her elder sister, Preeti and brother-in-law, Shashibhusan, expressed pride in Deeptilata’s actions, stating that her dedication brought comfort to the grieving family.

They noted that for families without sons, Deeptilata’s decision serves as a reassurance that daughters are equally capable of performing all responsibilities, including those traditionally associated with male heirs.