In the tranquil expanse of Sreepur Municipality in Gazipur, a remarkable sight has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike—a grave dug adjacent to the residence of 110-year-old Ameer Ali.
His unorthodox decision to prepare his final resting place before his demise has sparked both curiosity and admiration.
For the past seven years, Ameer Ali, with unwavering determination, has spent his days meticulously digging and constructing his own grave.
Situated next to his home in Poschim Para, the grave stands as a testament to his unique outlook on life, as he undertook this task to ensure that no burden would befall others in preparing his final abode.
Ameer Ali's motivation for this unconventional act stemmed from a desire to alleviate any future hardship for his loved ones.
His unwavering commitment saw him spend hours sitting beside the grave, often engaged in prayers and sometimes undertaking necessary maintenance and cleaning.
This unprecedented act has drawn the attention and admiration of the local community, inviting numerous visitors who were captivated by the inexplicable yet profound gesture.
Amena Begum, Ameer Ali's wife, echoed his sentiments, expressing her understanding of his wish to ensure an effortless process for his burial.
She said Ameer Ali did it as a reminder of his ultimate destination.
Amena pledged to abide by their mutual understanding that, upon their passing, they would rest side by side.
Despite her grave remaining undug, she said her son and elder brother would honor their commitment to taking care of both graves once they depart from this world.
Neighbors and local residents shared mixed emotions of surprise, admiration, and some skepticism. While some admired Ameer Ali’s foresight and dedication, others pondered the uncertainty of such actions in the realm of the divine.
Local student Mashrafe Sarkar said that they have been digging for the last seven years. “He sits next to the grave and prays. His wife is always by his side.”
Ameer Ali’s neighbor Ismail Hossain said: “I visited the grave with everyone in the area. Digging the grave before death, who knows if he will die here except Allah?”
Shahid Mia, a young local resident, said that digging the grave is not the end, for Ali has also bought the burial shroud (kafon). Everyone in the area knows. People from different areas come to visit his grave. A mahfil is being held at his house every few days. They are followers of a religious leader (Pir) in Katakhali area of Dhaka.
Ameer Ali's friend Ibrahim Hossain said: “I don't know if he dug his grave himself. But I saw the grave. We go to his house every Thursday to pray together. Ameer told us to bury him there if he dies.”
Sahid Sarkar, councilor of Ward No 3 of Sreepur Municipality, said: “We all know that Ameer Ali dug his grave himself in advance. At home, he organizes prayer ceremonies with like-minded people. Due to his advanced age, we have given him an old age allowance card.”