The city of Sur is in mourning following the tragic death of long-time resident and respected Indian businessman, Purshottam Bhatia, and his wife, Padmini. The couple lost their lives after a partial wall collapse at their home in Sur Market on Saturday. Purshottam, aged 89, was affectionately known as ‘Vald Hera’ among locals and ran the popular textile shop, Hiranand Kishandas and Company, for over 70 years. His warm personality and dedication to the community earned him a cherished place in the hearts of many in the region.
Their son, Pradeep Bhatia, shared the heartbreaking details of the incident, explaining that the side wall of their bedroom collapsed while they slept past midnight. The couple’s home had undergone partial renovation, but the older part of the house had become vulnerable following recent heavy rains in Sur. Despite the tragedy, the ground-floor shop remained unaffected. Since news of the incident spread, friends, relatives, and long-time customers have been paying their respects at the family home, reflecting on Purshottam’s popularity in the community.
Purshottam had gained attention for his longstanding ties with the community, with a viral video showcasing his interactions with customers at the shop. He was recently honored by the Indian Ambassador to Oman in recognition of his contributions to the region. Their grandchildren also shared a touching tribute online, posting a photo of their grandparents in front of an iconic dhow, symbolizing Sur’s shipbuilding tradition. The heartfelt message resonated deeply with the community, highlighting the family’s connections to Sur’s history and spirit.
Tributes have poured in from across the country, with prominent figures recalling Purshottam’s warmth, humility, and dedication to the business community in Sur. His family has been described as one of the cornerstones of Sur’s business landscape. Long-time residents also fondly remember visiting the shop and listening to Purshottam’s stories from his early days in Sur. The loss of these beloved figures has deeply impacted the community, with their contributions to the fabric of life in Sur being praised and remembered by many.
Purshottam leaves behind his son, three daughters, and ten grandchildren. The cremation is scheduled to take place in Sohar on Monday, with two of his daughters arriving on Sunday night. The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority confirmed the deaths, stating that rescue teams responded to the collapse of the old building in Sur, where the bodies of two Asian nationals were recovered from the rubble. The entire community grieves the loss of these beloved figures who made significant contributions to Sur’s culture and business landscape. Their legacy and impact will be remembered for years to come in the city of Sur.
