In a rare and symbolic farewell, the late Mombasa tycoon Hasmukh Patel, widely known as the owner of Mombasa Cement and a revered philanthropist, was honored in an extraordinary procession on Sunday.
Unlike traditional funerals, Patel’s body was seated in a specially designed casket, reflecting a unique cultural gesture believed to signify his eternal presence among his loved ones and the community.
As mourners gathered to pay their last respects, Patel’s body was transported through Mombasa in a grand procession that included stops at five Hindu temples, each of which he played a significant role in constructing.
The sight of the seated billionaire, affectionately known as the “people’s billionaire” for his extensive charitable work, drew crowds of residents who lined the streets to bid him farewell.
According to family members, the decision to have Patel seated rather than laid down was deeply symbolic.
“Mzee will not be lying; he will be seated. A sign that he is not gone completely but still with us somehow. He will be watching,” a family member explained.
The procession began at Pandya Memorial Hospital and made its way through Moi Avenue, stopping first at a temple that Patel had funded.
Brief prayers were held at each temple, with a longer stop at a temple opposite the Royal Court Hotel, where Patel had often spent his evenings observing the charity work he so passionately supported.
This location held special significance as it was the base from which he assisted thousands of needy residents with school fees, medical bills, and food supplies.
The final stop was at the New Cutchi Leva Patel Samaj Hall along Links Road, a venue with personal significance to the Patel family, as it was where his son’s wedding had been held.
The private cremation ceremony, known as the ‘mukhagni,’ was conducted by a Hindu priest and attended only by close family members.
WATCH VIDEO
