In a poignant and emotional farewell, the people of Satya Sai district stood united in grief and pride as they bid adieu to Veer Jawan Murali Naik, a young soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice during a confrontation with terrorists at the Kashmir border as part of Operation Sindoor. His mortal remains were brought to his native village, Kallithanda, where a sea of mourners — villagers, state leaders, and defense personnel — gathered to offer final tributes to the fallen hero.

Thousands lined the streets as Murali’s body, wrapped in the national flag, passed through villages with flower showers, salutes, and chants of “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram.” The 90-minute journey from Bengaluru stretched into an eight-hour-long emotional procession due to the massive turnout. Under the watch of Minister Savitha, a massive convoy with national flags accompanied the soldier’s last journey.

The state came together to stand with Murali Naik’s family — his grief-stricken parents, Jyothi Bai and Sriram Naik, who lost their only child. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and IT Minister Nara Lokesh personally visited the family to console them and assured continued support. Lokesh was visibly moved, participating in every stage of the funeral with deep emotion, even helping carry Murali’s body. He declared, “Murali dreamed of dying wrapped in the Indian flag. That wish has come true, but at a painful cost.”

In a media briefing after the funeral, Minister Lokesh announced several humanitarian and commemorative steps in honor of Murali. The state government will provide Rs.50 lakh as ex gratia to the family. Additionally, five acres of land and 300 square yards of housing land will be allocated to support their future. Lokesh also promised a government job for Murali’s father and declared that a memorial will be erected at the district headquarters, with a bronze statue to inspire future generations.

Fulfilling the villagers' emotional plea, the government agreed to rename Kallithanda village as "Murali Nayak Tanda" — a symbolic move to immortalize the braveheart in his homeland. “Our country is safe because of young soldiers like Murali who defend the borders while staying far away from their families,” Lokesh said.

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan announced a personal contribution of Rs.25 lakh from his own funds to the family. “No amount of money can replace their son, but we will ensure this family never feels abandoned,” he said.

The community played a central role in honoring their hero. Over two acres of land were cleared to set up visitor queues and funeral arrangements. People from nearby villages came in to pay their respects. Murali Naik’s bravery had transcended local boundaries — he became the son of the nation.

His final rites were conducted with full state honors in his own farmland, surrounded by a grieving village and a solemn state leadership. Minister Lokesh stayed till the last rite, ensuring all arrangements went smoothly. Other ministers including Anagani Satyaprasad, Anita, Savitha, Satya Kumar Yadav, and MPs and MLAs were present, underlining the bipartisan unity in mourning and honouring the martyr.