“CNS Executive Committee Welcomes Back the Birkatta Family with Condolences and Solidarity”

The Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS) Executive Committee visited Mr. Bhel Bahadur Birkatta and his family at their residence on Glebe Road, Colchester, to welcome them back from Nepal following the completion of the funeral rites of his late father, Hari Bahadur Birkatta Magar, on Saturday, 16 August. The late Mr. Hari Bahadur Birkatta Magar was born on Bikram Sambat 1986, Jestha 8 Gate, in Syangja. He lived a long and fulfilling life of 96 years before peacefully passing away on Bikram Sambat 2082, Ashadh 16. His life, which spanned almost a century, leaves behind a proud legacy for his family and an example of resilience and devotion for future generations.

Upon receiving the sad news of his father’s passing, Mr. Birkatta and his wife immediately travelled from the United Kingdom to Nepal, where they dutifully performed all the traditional funeral and memorial rites in their ancestral home of Syangja. Having completed these sacred duties, the family has now returned to Colchester.

During the visit, the Chair of CNS, Mr. Udaibahadur Gurung MBE, offered heartfelt condolences on behalf of the community, saying:

“Losing a father is an irreplaceable loss, but we must remember that life is a cycle; we are born, and one day we must depart. Your father lived for almost a century, a blessing for which you should be proud. Now, look to your wife and sons, and to the future that lies ahead, for life must continue even as we cherish the memory of those we have lost.”

In keeping with CNS tradition, the Executive Committee delegation, which included the Chair, Secretary, Ladies’ Coordinator, Cultural Coordinator, Advisor Mr. Kiran Gurung, and the Area Representative - carried out the official welcoming ritual. The Ladies’ Coordinator placed a Rupa (sacred thread) around the necks of Mr. and Mrs. Birkatta, symbolising the safe return of their souls, which may have felt carried away by the departed. A condolence card and a bouquet were also presented to Mrs. Birkatta as tokens of love, comfort, and solidarity.

The Birkatta family graciously offered refreshments, and after sharing time in reflection and fellowship, the CNS delegation departed with deep hopes for the family’s gradual return to strength and normality.

With prayers for the eternal peace of the departed soul, CNS stands firmly beside the Birkatta family during this time of mourning, offering continued support, comfort, and community.

Udaibahadur Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS)