Advertisement
List of people who woke up during their funerals
17th May, 2026 10:39 PM
Cases of people being mistakenly declared dead and later showing signs of life are extremely rare, but they have been reported in different parts of the world.
Medical experts explain that most of these situations occur when vital signs become extremely weak and difficult to detect, especially in critically ill patients.
In such moments, a person may appear lifeless even though minimal biological activity is still present.
Errors in clinical assessment, severe illness, or neurological conditions can sometimes contribute to premature declarations of death.
Below are some widely reported incidents that shocked families and communities.
Bella Montoya
In 2023, 76 year old Bella Montoya from Ecuador shocked mourners after signs of life were reportedly noticed during her funeral wake.
She had earlier been declared dead following a suspected stroke and cardiac arrest.
During the wake, relatives said they heard knocking sounds coming from inside the coffin, prompting immediate alarm and reopening of the casket.
She was rushed back to hospital for urgent treatment.
Doctors later confirmed she had been alive when discovered, but despite intensive care, she passed away a few days later due to complications related to her condition.
Budh Ram Gujjar
In India, 95 year old Budh Ram Gujjar was believed to have died after collapsing with chest pain. His family had already begun funeral preparations according to local customs.
During the preparations, relatives reportedly noticed movement after water was poured on his chest. He was found to be breathing again, shocking everyone present.
He later told family members that he had felt extremely weak and “like he was asleep” before regaining awareness during the funeral arrangements.
Rosa Isabel Cespedes Callaca
In Peru, mourners carrying the coffin of Rosa Isabel Cespedes Callaca during a funeral procession reportedly heard unusual sounds coming from inside.
When the coffin was opened, witnesses claimed she was sweating and showing signs of breathing. She was said to have opened her eyes during the process, causing panic among attendees.
She was immediately rushed to hospital for emergency care. The incident raised questions about how death had been confirmed before burial preparations began.
Brighton Dama Zanthe
In Zimbabwe, Brighton Dama Zanthe had been declared dead after a prolonged illness. His body was taken home where family members gathered for final viewing.
During the wake, mourners reportedly noticed movement from inside the coffin. Panic spread quickly as some attendees realised he might still be alive.
He was taken for medical attention and survived the incident, though reports suggested he had little memory of what occurred during that period.
Eshwar Pavade case
In India, 34 year old Eshwar Pavade was declared dead after illness and hospitalisation. His family had already prepared for burial.
However, during the final moments before burial, a relative reportedly noticed breathing movements while touching his chest.
He was said to have slightly opened his eyes shortly after.
He was rushed back to hospital for emergency treatment, and the burial was halted immediately.
Why misdiagnosis happens
Medical experts explain that such rare cases may occur when vital signs become extremely faint and difficult to detect.
This can happen in severe illness, neurological conditions, drug reactions, or extreme body shutdown states where breathing and pulse are barely noticeable.
In some situations, human error during examination can also contribute, especially where medical equipment is limited.
