Honouring Mandy's Mother's Journey to Eternity: A Visit by CNS Executives

On 26 March 2025, Mrs. Aitashri Gurung of Pokhara, Nepal, beloved mother of Mrs. Mandy Gurung and mother-in-law of Mr. Rubin Gurung, passed away peacefully at the age of over 90.

In accordance with Gurung spiritual tradition, both Mandy and Rubin travelled to Nepal to fulfil her funeral rites and complete the sacred 49-day death ritual believed to guide the soul to heaven.

Returning to the UK in mid-May, the couple was visited by the Colchester Nepalese Society (CNS) executive committee on Saturday, 14 June, at their residence in St. Michael's Estate. This visit, a cherished Nepalese custom, is a gesture of collective mourning and spiritual support following the loss of a parent.

Led by the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Advisor Kiran Gurung, the visit included the presentation of a rupa, a knotted thread around their necks to bring back their lost souls connected with the departed soul, along with a sympathy card and a flower. The Chair offered heartfelt words, acknowledging the natural course of life and the blessing of having a mother for over nine decades. The Secretary, Ladies Coordinator, and Advisor, Umesh Kumar Pun, MVO, were unable to attend due to their previous commitments.

Mandy and Rubin expressed their deep gratitude to CNS for the compassionate visit and comforting presence. The executives, after sharing refreshments and kind sentiments, departed with warm wishes for the family's continued strength and resilience.

May Mrs. Aitashri Gurung's soul rest in eternal peace, and may her legacy live on in the lives of her loved ones.

Udaibahadur Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS