Thika’s Historic Hindu Crematorium Transformed into Modern Facility

Thika’s Hindu crematorium, dating back to the early 1930s, has been transformed into one of the most modern cremation facilities in Kenya following a major upgrade led by the Indian community.

Speaking during the launch, Broadway Group Chairman Bimal Shah said the crematorium was originally established after Indian settlers arrived in Thika between 1910 and 1915. Over time, the need for modernisation became evident, prompting discussions among community members about three years ago.

Construction of the new facility began in August 2025 and was completed within nine months.

The upgraded crematorium now features both LPG-fired and modern wood-fired cremation systems. The LPG chamber is fully enclosed, offering a cleaner, safer, and more environmentally friendly process, while the improved wood-fired system uses less firewood and includes enhanced smoke management.

Additional facilities include a prayer hall, offices, washrooms and a well-organised compound with paved access roads designed to provide a dignified environment for grieving families.

“We have embraced modern technology while still respecting cultural and religious traditions,” said Shah.

He noted that the new facility is already attracting interest beyond the Hindu community, with a growing number of local families considering cremation as an alternative to burial due to factors such as cost, efficiency, and limited land.

Currently, while the Hindu community records about five to six cremations annually, the number of local users has begun to rise, with approximately one cremation per month from the wider community.

The cremation process has also been streamlined, requiring families to book in advance and provide essential documentation, including a death certificate and burial permit. Costs are expected to range between Ksh. 40,000 and Ksh. 50,000, slightly lower than rates in Nairobi.

The LPG system can complete cremation in about one and a half hours, allowing the facility to handle multiple cases in a day, while the wood-fired system takes longer.

Thika Hindu Crematorium Chairman Mukesh Shah described the project as a historic milestone.

“This facility has been designed to serve both the Hindu community and the wider public with dignity, respect, and convenience,” he said, noting that it fills a long-standing gap for a modern cremation facility in the area.

He added that the crematorium, set in a serene environment, includes a spacious prayer hall and support amenities to ensure comfort for families during bereavement.

The facility, officially named Satnari Hindu Crematorium, is open to all members of the public regardless of religious or cultural background.

Bidco Africa Chairman Vimal Shah, whose family was one of the key sponsors of the project, described the crematorium as more than just infrastructure.

“This is a sacred space built to offer dignity, simplicity and support to families during moments of grief,” he said.

He noted that the project reflects the values of service, unity, and giving back to the community, while thanking various organizations and stakeholders who contributed to its completion.

A technician at the facility explained that the modern systems are designed to improve efficiency and environmental safety. The LPG chamber operates in a fully enclosed system with automated processes and smoke filtration, while the upgraded wood-fired unit incorporates advanced heat and smoke control mechanisms.

Unlike the older system, which lacked proper ventilation, the new setup ensures minimal smoke emissions and allows family members to remain nearby in a more comfortable environment.

With its modern infrastructure and inclusive approach, the Satnari Hindu Crematorium is expected to play a key role in addressing challenges such as limited burial space and rising funeral costs, while offering a dignified alternative for final rites in Thika and beyond.