Ground report: 73-yr-old social worker’s lifelong dedication to serving forgotten souls

In a town of Mukerian, Punjab, Kumar Painter, 73, has devoted over three decades to serving the most marginalised members of society-those who have been abandoned or forgotten by the world. Known as Baldev Kumar, his life's work is not driven by wealth or recognition, but by compassion and selfless service.

Since 1990-91, Kumar has been performing the last rites for unidentified and unclaimed bodies, a task few would dare take on. For him, it is a sacred duty, inspired by a moment from the Ramayana when Lord Ram performed the final rites for Jatayu, the bird who died defending Sita. This act of divine compassion left a deep impact on Kumar, who decided to dedicate his life to a similar mission.

In 2013, Kumar established the Sarv Pitri Mukti Avm Manav Kalyan Sanstha in Mukerian, which has become a cornerstone of service in the region. The trust facilitates the final rites of unclaimed or destitute individuals with full religious honour. Since 2020, the Sanstha has also operated a hearse van, ensuring that even the poorest people receive dignified transportation for their final journey.

But Kumar's commitment goes beyond cremation. He carefully collects the ashes of the departed and takes them to Kankhal, Haridwar, where he immerses them in the holy Ganga River. He also performs the 'Pind Daan' ritual at the banks of the Saraswati River in Pehowa, Haryana, as a mark of peace for the departed souls.

His selfless work has not gone unnoticed. The Punjab Government recently honoured Kumar Painter and his NGO with a State Award in recognition of his extraordinary service to humanity.

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