The body of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief both domestically and internationally, was cremated on Sunday on the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi with full state honours.
The funeral was conducted in the Sikh tradition, with priests chanting hymns as Singh’s body, draped in the Indian flag, was carried through the capital on a flower-decked carriage pulled by a ceremonial army truck. The flag was removed, and his body was covered with a saffron cloth before being placed on the pyre.
Since Singh’s death on Thursday at 92, many have reflected on his comment near the end of his 10-year rule: “History will be kinder to me than the contemporary media.” This comment was made in the context of perceptions of weak leadership during his tenure, as he headed a coalition government that faced corruption allegations and was ousted in the 2014 election won by his successor, Narendra Modi.
Modi, who referred to Singh as one of the nation’s “most distinguished leaders” after his passing, attended the funeral, alongside President Droupadi Murmu and representatives from various countries. Modi’s government has also decided to allocate land for Singh’s memorial.
Singh, regarded as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, had criticized Modi’s economic policies, such as demonetization and the introduction of the goods and services tax (GST).
Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accompanied Singh’s family to the Nigambodh Ghat cremation site, where party members and leaders paid their last respects.
Leaders from the U.S., Canada, France, Sri Lanka, China, and Pakistan expressed their condolences over Singh’s death, highlighting his international contributions.
