Honoring Nature: A Solemn Farewell to a 200-Year-Old Semal Tree

Shalu Saini, a 37-year-old single mother, has dedicated her life to performing the funeral rites of unclaimed bodies. For the first time, she extended this service to a 200-year-old Semal tree, conducting its last rites in accordance with Hindu cremation rituals. Her act of reverence highlights the spiritual bond between humans and nature.

For 37-year-old Shalu Saini, assisting the poor with funeral rituals has been a dedicated act of service. This time, however, she extended her compassion to a 200-year-old Semal tree, conducting its funeral rites for the first time.

The ancient tree, revered by generations, fell on Wednesday. Saini, moved by a profound sense of loss, collected parts of the tree and consigned them to flames at Nai Mandi Shamshan Ghat in Muzaffarnagar as per Hindu traditions.

Without publicizing her actions, Saini performed the ritual quietly, stating that she will continue to honor trees if guided by spiritual callings from Lord Shiva. Her actions have drawn praise from the community and religious organizations, who see her efforts as a noble extension of Hindu spirituality.

(With inputs from agencies.)