A year has passed since the sinkhole tragedy along Jalan Masjid India in Kuala Lumpur, yet for one family, the pain remains as raw as ever. On August 22, Surya, the son of the late Indian tourist Vijayalaksmi, returned to the site where his mother lost her life to hold a heartfelt prayer in her memory.

In a ritual known as Thavasam, Surya placed his mother’s photo at the spot of the collapse, adorning it with a garland of flowers. He laid out banana leaves as a makeshift altar, filling them with sweets, fruits, and the foods his mother loved most. Camphor and incense burned softly in the background, as he whispered prayers for her peace.

Sinkhole tragedy claims life of loving mother

The ceremony didn’t stop there. In honour of his mother’s giving spirit, Surya also shared food and drinks with people nearby, an act of compassion known as anathanam. For him, it was a way to turn grief into kindness, hoping his mother’s soul would be comforted through the good deeds.

He wasn’t alone. A relative stood by his side at the rebuilt walkway, which now looks neat and new, a sharp contrast to the same ground that, a year ago on August 23, had suddenly caved in and claimed his mother’s life. To this day, her body has never been recovered.

When tragedy struck, Surya had been in Thailand. He rushed to Kuala Lumpur the very next day and stayed by the search site, refusing to leave. For days, he clung to hope as rescuers fought against dangerous underground sewage conditions. But on August 31, after eight long days, the heartbreaking announcement came where the search was stopped as the sewage conditions were worsened.

For Surya, the rebuilt pavement may look ordinary to passers-by, but for him, it is sacred ground. A place where he continues to grieve, remember, and honour the woman he loved most: his mother.

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