Death is a mystery.  It comes unnoticed by everyone at any time. On 28 January 2021 our beloved Br. Benedict Kullu, TOR (Baptismal name Emil Kullu) breathed his last at Franciscan Ashram, Harmu to be with the Lord forever in His abode.

His late parents, Tintus and Salomi Kullu brought him forth on 16 June 1940 at Churia village, which is adjacent to the hillocks and uneven forest landscape.

After his schooling at Samsera High School, Br. Benedict Kullu joined the Franciscan community in the year 1961 as a candidate at Franciscan Training Institute, Ranchi. He made his temporary profession on 31 May 1964. Inspired by self confidence to his religious call on 31 May 1967, he humbly offered himself to the Lord through the final profession. Thus, he made an onward journey to find the Master of his life

Bro. Benedict, during his long and faithful Franciscan life, selflessly served the Church and Franciscan Communities in many capacities. Much of his religious life was spent in assisting in the catechetical and evangelization apostolate in Hasimara, Poreyahat, Banhora, Harmu, Murumkela, Deoghar, Dhitpur mission (WB). Br. Benedict also rendered his dedicated service in looking after the children in hostels in Jamtara (Dumka), Deoghar, Poreyahat and Hasimara. He also served as the Minister of the House at Franciscan Ashram, Ranchi and Franciscan Ashram, Bhagalpur.

Br. Benedict Kullu, TOR, faithfully tried to live an exemplary life in the society. He was very much dedicated to personal as well as community spiritual exercises. The Holy Bible was a part of his life and love for Mother Mary was unfailing.

After his 60s, he developed high blood pressure and lived under medication for more than two decades.  In his old age, he was placed in the Fraternity of Banhora and later at Franciscan Ashram, Harmu. His physical movement was limited to only the parish campus.

In 2020, he was diagnosed with intestinal obstruction and was admitted in Sri Jagarnath Hospital in Ranchi. But his health deteriorated rapidly. Amidst many other health complications, he underwent the gastrointestinal surgery, which brought him some relief. Later he was moved to Constant Lievens Hospital, Mandar and St. Anne’s hospital, Ulihatu for continued medication and rest. Then, in January 2021, he was brought back to Franciscan Ashram, Harmu and taken care by a trained nurse.  On 28 January 2021 at 4:00 am, he embraced Sister Death and was buried at Banhora cemetery after a requiem Mass offered by the friars for his soul.

Undoubtedly, during his 56 year of fervent Religious life, Br. Benedict has touched, directed and brought many souls to God. Gifted with unassuming Franciscan humility, joyful appearance, ready availability and hospitality, he made every visitor feel at home in our communities. St. Francis province, Ranchi will always feel the loss of an inspiring and genuine friar, with the absence of Bro. Benedict Kullu.