The ongoing legal battle within the Kalyani family regarding the memorial for their late mother has resurfaced in court, drawing significant attention. Sugandha Hiremath, sister of prominent industrialist Baba Kalyani, shared her emotional experience during a recent hearing at the Pune Civil Court. She expressed her disappointment after traveling to Kashi to honor her mother, Sulochana Kalyani, only to find no acceptable memorial in place, which she described as a betrayal of her family’s wishes.

Dispute Over Memorial Location

Hiremath has formally requested permission to build a proper memorial for her mother adjacent to her father’s memorial in Pune. During a court-ordered meeting on February 20, Baba Kalyani claimed that their mother’s memorial had already been established in Kashi. This claim has sparked further contention between the siblings.

• Location Confusion: Hiremath’s visit to Kashi revealed a Rs 350 shivling among a sea of over 100,000 other shivlings, which she believes does not honor her mother’s legacy appropriately.
• Mother’s Wishes: She insists that it was her mother’s desire to rest beside her husband, Neelkanth Kalyani, and accuses Baba of obstructing this wish.

Baba Kalyani’s Defense

In response, Baba Kalyani clarified that the last rites for Sulochana Kalyani were conducted two years ago, adhering to Lingayat customs in the presence of family members, including Hiremath. He stated that he had arranged for a memorial, or a ling, at Jangamwadi Muth in Kashi in honor of both parents and paid tribute to them at the recent Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

• Allegations of Malice: Kalyani accused his sister of instigating frivolous legal action after two years of silence, suggesting her motives are personal and aimed at tarnishing their mother’s memory.
• Legal Position: He maintains that Hiremath’s claims are unfounded and legally unsustainable, particularly regarding her right to establish a new memorial for their mother.

Moving Towards Resolution

Kalyani’s legal team indicated their willingness to settle the matter amicably, although they noted that Hiremath appears resistant to such an approach. They plan to formally respond to her allegations in court.

The next hearing for this contentious case is set for April, when Kalyani is expected to file his rejoinder. As this family dispute unfolds, it continues to capture public interest, raising questions about familial duty, respect, and the legacy of loved ones.