Hyderabad: In a tearful farewell to former archbishop emeritus Thumma Bala, thousands of Catholics, along with heads of various dioceses’ from across India attended the funeral mass conducted by the Archdice of Hyderabad, here on Friday. The service was led by Cardinal Poola Anthony.
In a touching tribute, Thumma Bala was compared to John Milton “for coming up with great products from adverse situations.” They mourned the loss of a Telugu Catholic community doyen.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who attended the funeral, said in tribute: “The life of Bishop Thumma Bala was exemplary. I extend my condolences to his family and the entire Catholic community for its monumental loss.”
Addressing the gathering, Cardinal Anthony recalled the achievements of Thumma Bala, who “went about his quest for the betterment of the faithful.”
Sharing his association with Thumma Bala, Rev Fr Dr Swarna Bernard said “A man of principles and values, he was dedicated to Christ and the church. In a way, he pioneered the practice of raising funds to ensure that the poor would go about their higher education pursuits. Under him, many educational intuitions have taken shape.”
Among the mourners were Bishops Udumala Bala, Jaya Rao, Sagili Prakesh, Dhaman Kumar, Gorantala Johannes, Maipan Paul and Govindu Joji.
Among Thumma Bala’s nieces, Dr Deepti spoke about his last days while Sister Innama proposed the vote of thanks.
Later the body was buried at St Mary's Basilica, Secunderabad, in keeping with the wishes of Thumma Bala.
