Mumbai Tower Of Silence Red-Painted Stones Spark Pet Burial Concerns

A circle of red-painted stones at the Parsi Tower of Silence in Malabar Hill, Mumbai, has sparked concerns among residents about the burial of animals within the cemetery. The stones, which were discovered by a resident of the nearby Godrej Baug Parsi residential colony, were initially suspected to be associated with occult or black magic rituals. However, it was later revealed that they were markers for an animal grave.

The resident who discovered the stones questioned whether the animal had been buried at an adequate depth and whether appropriate precautions had been taken to ensure the hygienic disposal of the remains. This incident has highlighted the lack of civic rules governing the burial or disposal of dead animals in Mumbai.

Animal burials are not uncommon at the Doongerwadi cemetery, which is known for its traditional Zoroastrian funeral rites. In fact, a former cemetery staff member confirmed that the latest case involved a pet dog. The cemetery management has officially allowed such burials, but the lack of specific municipal regulations has raised concerns among residents.

Dr Kalim Pasha Pathan, a veterinarian and general manager at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's Deonar abattoir, stated that there are currently no specific municipal regulations governing the burial or disposal of dead animals. The BMC has set up crematoriums for animals at Mahalaxmi, Deonar, and Malad, but the decision to allow animal burials in human cemeteries is left to the cemetery management.

The Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP), which manages the Malabar Hill cemetery, has a tradition of according dogs special respect as vigilant protectors and beneficent creatures. According to Adil Malia, a trustee of the BPP, Zoroastrian tradition believes that dogs have a special role in repelling the evil influence associated with decay and the pollution of a corpse.

The discovery of the red-painted stones has sparked a debate about the need for civic rules governing animal burials in Mumbai. While the cemetery management has allowed such burials, the lack of regulations has raised concerns about hygiene and the disposal of dead animals.

The incident has also highlighted the importance of understanding and respecting different cultural and religious traditions. The Zoroastrian community has a unique tradition of according dogs special respect, and the ceremony of Sagdid, which involves the gaze of a dog to repel evil influence, is an important part of their funeral rites.

In conclusion, the discovery of the red-painted stones at the Parsi Tower of Silence has raised important questions about the need for civic rules governing animal burials in Mumbai. While the cemetery management has allowed such burials, the lack of regulations has raised concerns about hygiene and the disposal of dead animals. It is essential to strike a balance between respecting different cultural and religious traditions and ensuring that the disposal of dead animals is done in a hygienic and safe manner.