This Mysuru Woman Is Digging Graves For A Living For Last 20 Years

Cemeteries often evoke a sense of fear and unease, but for one remarkable woman in Mysuru, it has become both her home and her workplace. This mother of two has been residing and working in a cemetery for the past 20 years, breaking traditional gender roles and demonstrating extraordinary dedication.

We are talking about Neelamma, who lives in the Lingayat Cemetery located in Vidyaranyapuram, Mysuru. Unlike most people who would avoid spending time in a cemetery, she has made it her permanent residence. Neelamma has taken on the responsibilities that are typically performed by men, such as digging graves and assisting with the last rites of the deceased.

Her life took a significant turn after she lost her husband. Despite this personal tragedy, she chose to stay in the cemetery and dedicate herself to its upkeep. Whenever she feels low or distressed, she finds solace in going to the graves within the cemetery and cleaning them. This act of cleaning is not just physical but also a form of emotional and spiritual cleansing for her.

Neelamma’s services are deeply respected by the local community. She does not demand any money for her work but accepts whatever is given by those who come to perform the last rites. This selfless approach has earned her the respect and admiration of many.

The 5-acre cemetery that she manages with the help of her son is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She said, “With this work of grave digging I needn’t be at the mercy of others for work. I dig graves and they pay me. In 2005, when I started the work, I used to receive Rs 200 to dig one grave, but now I receive Rs 1000 per grave”. She added that it takes her around three hours to dig one grave.

Neelamma further said that she has received innumerable felicitations and appreciation and also added that it becomes difficult for her to balance between attending programs and continuing with her graveyard work. Neelamma’s son Basavarajendra Prasad also said that it makes him elated to see his mother getting recognition. When Neelamma was asked if she wasn’t scared of ghosts and spirits, she had an interesting answer. She said that one should be more scared of the living than the dead.