In a heartwarming testament to enduring bonds and respect for a fallen hero, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the wedding of Reena, the daughter of Hemraj Meena, a CRPF martyr who lost his life in the Pulwama attack of 2019. The celebration took place in Sangod, Kota, where joy filled the family’s home for the first time in six years.
Hemraj’s sacrifice left an indelible mark on his family. Amid their grief, the Lok Sabha Speaker stepped in as a supportive figure, forging a unique bond with Hemraj’s wife, Madhubala. Known as Veerangana Madhubala, she found solace in Birla’s unwavering presence, as he embraced the role of a “Rakhi brother.” His promise to stand by Madhubala and her family was exemplified yet again when he arrived with traditional Bhaat offerings for Reena’s wedding, fulfilling his vow made years ago.
The emotional connection between the Speaker and the martyr’s family was palpable during the ceremony. Birla performed customary rituals, presenting a chunari to Madhubala and receiving tilak and aarti from her—a poignant display of familial warmth. The occasion also saw him pay floral tributes to the statue of Hemraj, reflecting on his supreme sacrifice and patriotism that remain a source of inspiration to the entire nation.
Since Hemraj’s tragic demise, Madhubala has honored Birla on festivals like Rakhi and Bhai Dooj, symbolizing the profound bond they share. The Speaker, alongside Rajasthan Energy Minister Hiralal Nagar and Sangod MLA, acknowledged Madhubala’s strength and resilience during the wedding event, reinforcing the theme of unity and compassion that has defined this relationship.
For the family, the wedding marked a long-awaited moment of joy, a reprieve from years of mourning. Hemraj Meena’s legacy of courage and commitment to the nation was celebrated not just by his immediate kin but also by those who stood by them in their darkest hour.
Om Birla’s presence served as a reminder of how humanity and solidarity can transcend tragedy, weaving lasting connections that inspire hope for the future.
