The ashes of the former Defence Minister George Fernandes were brought here and buried at Bejai cemetery on Saturday. Fernandes died in New Delhi on Tuesday and he was cremated on Thursday.
Michael Fernandes, brother of the late Minister, brought the ashes to Bejai church around 3.30 p.m. A large number of clergy, his relatives and elected representatives were present.
Mayor Bhaskar K., D. Vedavyasa Kamath, MLA for Mangaluru City South, Ganesh Karnik, former MLC, a few councillors participated in a prayer organised at the church on the occasion.
George Fernandes was born in Bejai. The ashes were brought here to enable his relatives and friends to pray, as many could not attend the funeral in Delhi.
Later at a public condolence meeting organised at T.V. Raman Pai Hall, the former Bishop of Mangaluru Aloysius Paul D’Souza described George Fernandes as a role model. He said the former Minister was responsible for building the Konkan railway line. He said that George Fernandes led a simple life. He was accessible to common people and responded to their woes.
N. Vinay Hegde, Chancellor, Nitte Deemed to be University, said George Fernandes dedicated his life for social service.
Nalin Kumar Kateel, MP, spoke about George Fernandes’ contribution.