Sanaya’s father, Sameer Sahbib, carried his daughter out of the service in a tiny wooden coffin he built himself as hundreds gathered to bid their farewells and offer their support.
This morning’s funeral service was open to the public at Bunurong Memorial Park and was followed by a much more private an intimate family-only burial.
The service came after more than 200 people gathered together for a vigil on Friday at Olympic Park, releasing pink and yellow balloons to farewell Sanaya and offering condolences to the family.
The Daily Mail are reporting that after the balloon ceremony Sanaya’s uncle, Jameel Ahmed, said the family thanked the community from “the bottom of our hearts”.
Obviously it’s been the most difficult week for all of us and it means so much, I’m almost lost for words.
“She (Sanaya) absolutely lit up our lives in the short time she was with us, she touched a lot of hearts,” he said.
The 14-month-old was reported missing a week ago, and was found dead less than 24 hours later in the Darebin Creek. Her mother, Sofina Nikat, 22, was charged with her murder.
Nikat was due to appear before a magistrate on Wednesday after being charged with her daughter’s murder but refused amid concerns over her mental state.
Top Comments
RIP Sanaya Sahib, ..Our "one-eyed" society Failed you.