A Community United in Grief: Canberra Mourns Young Boy with Police Dreams
In a poignant display of compassion, a Canberra police officer offered a final handshake to four-year-old Osal Mayur Pokhrel, a young boy who tragically lost his life in a crash at Mawson shops last week. The officer's gesture came at the hospital bedside, fulfilling a mother's heartfelt request to honour her son's dream of one day wearing the badge.
A Farewell Dressed in Blue
Nearly 300 people, many dressed in blue—Osal's favourite colour—gathered at Gold Creek Station on Thursday to bid farewell to the vibrant child. The service was a testament to the impact his short life had on the Canberra community, drawing family, friends, and even Bhutan's ambassador to Australia, Sonam Tobgay.
Osal's mother, Chura Maya Adhikari, shared an emotional account of the police officer's touching act. "I asked him if he can say a final goodbye, so when [Osal] is like reborn, he will be a police officer for sure," she said, fighting back tears. "The police officer didn't hesitate. He just gave him a final handshake."
Remembering a 'Superhero' Child
Described by his uncle, Lalit Rai, as gentle, bright, and wise beyond his years, Osal was remembered as a selfless boy who would let other children go ahead of him during lunchtime. His parents, Prakash and Chura, spoke of his unwavering love, with Osal often calling them his "superheroes."
"The only word we could remember from his last speech was 'Daddy'. 'Daddy, please look at this toy' and the toy is still there, but our baby is gone," Ms Adhikari recounted, highlighting the profound loss felt by the family.
Community Support in Tragic Times
The tragedy also underscored the kindness of strangers. Ms Adhikari thanked a woman at the Mawson shopping centre who called an ambulance "in time" and another witness who helped rescue Osal, removing his shirt so he could be laid on the ground. She expressed gratitude to nurses, police officers, and the broader Bhutanese and Australian communities for their support.
"Thank you all, the Buddhist community, each and every one of you who are coming forward, and even all the people of Australia, which we even don't know, silently praying for him," she said.
A Moving Final Tribute
Osal was placed in a pastel blue coffin surrounded by his favourite toys, as Hindu and Buddhist leaders led prayers. Attendees showered the small coffin with flower petals and white Bhutanese scarfs, symbols of purity, in a final, heartfelt goodbye.
His father, Prakash Pokhrel, shared a message of resilience, saying, "From the parents, which we are no more, thank you everyone." The family's strength, coupled with the community's outpouring of support, painted a picture of unity in the face of unimaginable grief.
