Canberra Police Officer's Final Handshake for Young Crash Victim Who Dreamed of the Badge
In a deeply emotional farewell, the Canberra community gathered to honour four-year-old Osal Mayur Pokhrel, who tragically lost his life in a crash at the Mawson shops last week. The young boy, who dreamed of becoming a police officer, was given a moving send-off at Gold Creek Station, attended by nearly 300 people dressed in his favourite colour, blue.
A Touching Gesture from a Police Officer
Osal's mother, Chura Maya Adhikari, fought back tears as she recounted a poignant moment at her son's hospital bed. She described how she asked a police officer to say a final goodbye to Osal, hoping that in his next life, he would fulfil his dream of becoming an officer. "The police officer didn't hesitate. He just gave him a final handshake," Ms Adhikari said, expressing her deep respect for the gesture.
She reflected on her son's aspirations, noting, "No wonder he always wanted to be a policeman and save everyone from the bad guys." This act of kindness highlighted the compassion within the Canberra police force and the broader community.
Community Support in Times of Tragedy
The tragedy brought together strangers, nurses, police officers, and members of the Bhutanese community, all of whom stepped forward to help the grieving family. Ms Adhikari expressed gratitude for the "good deeds" of these individuals, including a woman at the Mawson shopping centre who called an ambulance "in time" and another witness who assisted in rescuing Osal.
She shared a heartbreaking memory of her son's last words, "Daddy, please look at this toy," adding that while the toy remains, their baby is gone. Despite the immense pain, Ms Adhikari cherished the four years they had with Osal, describing the memories as "like a lifetime."
A Farewell Filled with Love and Respect
Osal's father, Prakash Pokhrel, spoke of holding onto hope even in the darkest moments, while his uncle, Lalit Rai, remembered the four-year-old as an extraordinary child—gentle, bright, and wise beyond his years. Rai recalled how Osal saw his parents as superheroes, much like how the family saw him.
Attendees at the funeral included Bhutanese Canberrans, neighbours, colleagues, preschool teachers, and even Bhutan's ambassador to Australia, Sonam Tobgay. The ceremony featured a pastel blue coffin surrounded by Osal's favourite toys, with Hindu and Buddhist leaders leading prayers. Guests showered the coffin with flower petals and white Bhutanese scarfs, symbolising purity.
A Legacy of Selflessness and Unity
One woman at the service described Osal as "selfless," noting how he would let other children go ahead of him during lunchtime. This spirit of kindness resonated throughout the community, as Ms Adhikari thanked not only those present but also all Australians who offered silent prayers.
Her husband, Prakash Pokhrel, poignantly concluded, "From the parents, which we are no more, thank you everyone." This tragic event has underscored the strength and compassion of the Canberra community, uniting people in support of a family facing unimaginable loss.
