November 17

Nobody in the Home for the Dying in Kalighat has died depressed, in despair, unwanted, unfed or unloved. That is why I think this is the treasure house of Calcutta. WE try and give them whatever they want - according to what is written in the book, be it Hindu, or Muslim, or Buddhist or Catholic or Protestant, or any other Society. The religious societies collect their own dead and provide them cremation or burial according to their religious rites. Some ask for Ganges water, some for holy water, for a word or a prayer. Some just ask for an apple or a pomegranate or a cigarette. Others want somebody to sit by them.