The family of the late billionaire Hasmukh Patel has revealed the reasons behind his unique burial in a sitting position.
Hasmukh’s body was placed in a seated posture within his casket as it was taken to five different temples in Mombasa, allowing the city’s residents to pay their final respects.
This gesture was a tribute to the significant role Hasmukh played in the construction of various temples around Mombasa.
His body was moved between these temples as a mark of honor and respect for his contributions.
According to the family, burying him in a sitting position symbolizes his everlasting presence with them.
They believe that this position signifies that he is not entirely gone but remains with them in spirit.
“Mzee will not be lying down; he will be seated. This is a sign that he is still with us, watching over us,” explained a family member during a press briefing.
The funeral procession included several meaningful stops, each with its own significance.
One of the final stops was at a temple located opposite the Royal Court Hotel, a place where many needy residents once sought assistance from Hasmukh.
At this location, there was a five-minute pause for prayers, followed by a longer stop, as it was here that Hasmukh often sat in the evenings after work to oversee his charitable activities.
Other temples included in the procession were located in Nyali, with the final stop at the New Cutchi Leva Patel Samaj Hall along Links Road.
This venue also holds personal significance for the family, as it was where Hasmukh’s son celebrated his wedding.
It has been reported that several prominent figures, including President William Ruto, who is expected to attend before departing for China, as well as Kalonzo Musyoka, Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, and Jomvu MP Badi Twalib, are expected to attend the funeral.