The Nizaams of Hyderabad (the line of rulers of the erstwhile princely state within India) were extremely wealthy; the last one was rumoured to be ensconced with most of his precious wealth of gems and gold surrounding him in his bedroom, even during his last days. He would keep touching the gold bars and diamonds that lay beneath his bed in wooden chests even when he was breathing his last.
Pharaohs of Egypt were the stalwarts of this emotion; they did not spare their pets too, embalming their cats, dogs and donkeys along with all the riches! And I believe their love was such that living beings were mummified to accompany the rich dead!! They were the believers in the afterlife. So are we…One long gone Auntie was very possessive about her precious sarees and wouldn’t part with them even when her condition led her to adorning hospital gowns till she departed( God bless her soul)
The question remains -How to transport our hoarded wealth… Blue Dart or DHL do fly their Cargo jets all the way up, but then…?? Burying them is also not an option as it will not ensure the safe delivery of them all, as I would be leaving via the inferno. The stuff could be lost in transit.A bit difficult to imagine physical things transforming into smoke, ashes and dust and then accompanying me on final departure, but you never know!
While many are quick to jump on science as the barometer of truth, I prefer to edge with caution. Yes, it’s a field we trust, but there is also a lot to be said for gut feel and having faith. Things happen that science can’t explain — that’s why some of the most intelligent researchers believe in something beyond this world despite their knowledge.
If you have any inclinations towards religion, multiple lives, or even a generic faith in a higher existence, then buying into life after death theory makes sense.Whatever your belief system, not even a penny goes along. So these days I am trying to live by the following Mantras:
Declutter without regret.
Disown without looking back.
Don’t keep things for a special occasion. Waking up every day is in itself the most special occasion.
Heartfelt 