Surat: “Perform all my last rites while I am still alive, not after I am gone. Just collect a few flowers and immerse them in the Narmada,” says 80-year-old Devraj Desai with a warm, untroubled smile as he speaks to his son.By flowers, the retired diamond unit owner refers to his mortal remains — yet there is no trace of fear in his words. With a glow on his face and an enduring enthusiasm to serve all living beings, death seems distant. Still, Desai has chosen not to wait for it to arrive before acknowledging its significance and embracing Jivta Jagatyu.Jivta Jagatyu is a tradition in which a person commemorates his or her life while still alive and performs all post-death rituals. It has been steadily being embraced by many and performed just once. However, Desai has been observing the ritual regularly for the past 17 years.Originally from Ukharla village in Bhavnagar district, Desai once ran a diamond polishing unit employing around 25 workers. Nearly two decades ago, he developed serious heart complications, and doctors advised surgery to replace two heart valves. Following the operation, his family feared his time might be limited. It was then that Desai made an unusual request: instead of performing rituals after his death, he wished to observe them during his lifetime.Much to the family’s relief, Desai recovered well. His disciplined lifestyle and simple routine helped restore his health. “Since then, we have been observing Jivta Jagatyu almost every day by planting at least one tree,” says his son Dhansukh, who runs an embroidery business and is associated with Green Army, a citizen group promoting environmental awareness through plantation drives.Over the years, the family has marked nearly 20 birthdays and “death anniversaries” with tree-planting initiatives and campaigns encouraging organ, eye, and body donation.Traditionally, after a person’s death, families offer meals to relatives and donate to charitable causes as a mark of respect, to aid the soul’s journey, and to earn spiritual merit. In Devraj Desai’s case, these acts are being carried out during his lifetime. The family regularly organises community meals at religious places and provides fodder for cows. “I want people to remember me with happiness while I am still here. That is why we celebrate in this way,” says Desai.He often spends extended periods in religious towns like Chanod, which is considered sacred for post-death rituals, where he continues his charitable activities, such as organising meals for people. In addition, Desai has pledged to donate his body to a medical college and his eyes to an eye bank.Supporting this decision, his granddaughter, Dr Smita Golakiha, an MD in microbiology, says, “When I was studying medicine, I pledged to donate my body and eyes. My grandfather had the same wish, and we ensured his registration.”Praful Shiroya, president of Lok Drashti Eye Bank, calls the family an inspiration. “People like Desai prove that one can contribute meaningfully to society not only during life but even beyond it,” he says.
