Church approves cremation, but most in Mangaluru prefer burial

MANGALURU: The cremation of Konkani activist Eric Alexander Ozario, who passed away a few days ago, has highlighted a practice permitted by the Vatican since 1963, but seldom chosen.In 2016, the Vatican reiterated that while burial is preferred, cremation is also allowed. Cremated mortal remains should be kept in sacred places such as a church cemetery and must not be scattered in the sea, river, or any other water bodies. Also, they must not be kept at home or divided among family members. The changes to the final rites of Catholics in 2016 were made by the then Pope Francis.The Diocese of Mangalore had five individuals opting for cremation until 2016 as per its data.

From 2016 to 2025, the diocese reports some 25-30 persons have chosen cremation, primarily from parishes within city limits. Officials from the diocese stated that there have been no reported cases in churches in rural, town, or semi-urban areas."Besides, there are others who belong to parishes under the Diocese of Mangalore, but cremated in other states or countries. Their cremated remains were brought home for committal," said Fr JB Saldanha, public relations officer of the Diocese.

He told TOI that the highest number of cremations, according to the diocese office records, took place at Milagres Church (7), followed by Valencia (6), Bejai (4), and Bendur (3). He added that although cremation is permitted, many still prefer the traditional burial at their respective parishes.Cremation debated online Cremation in Mangaluru is currently done at only one facility available - Boloor. The cremated remains are collected the next day for further procedure," he explained.When news spread that Eric Ozario would be cremated as per his wish, a debate emerged online and within the community regarding its permissibility. Asked about the level of awareness of cremation among Catholics, Fr Saldanha stated that not many are aware of it.Sources indicated that cremation is more economical compared to burial. "The undertakers' charges for a simple burial package start from Rs 25,000, which includes digging the grave and transporting the mortal remains to the church from home or hospital or the place of death. The charges for having a permanent tomb start at Rs 3 lakh," a source added.