Hindu Funeral

About Hindu Funerals

Hindu Funeral is based on Hinduism belief that life and death are part of the concept of Samsara (or rebirth).

Hindu funeral places importance in reincarnation – where the physical boy is no longer around but the soul continues to live on and is reborn into another life. Hindu funeral service rituals may vary between sects and subsects however the core principles and rituals are probably still the same.

Hindu funeral rites and rituals can vary depending on the religion, family traditions, and where the dead person’s family is situated.

For Hindu funerals usually cremation is the practice. According to Hindu death rituals they remain at home when a person dies before being taken to the cremation site.

Hindu Funeral Rituals

• Priest or family members to chant mantras or play a recording of mantras.
• The body is washed by family members and close friends – most funeral homes understanding this will allow this to be practiced or family can request for the funeral director to wash and dress the deceased.
• A wake is held before cremation.
• Ashes are typically scattered at a sacred body of water or at some other place of importance.
• Traditionally all Hindus are cremated. The eldest male relative will accompany the casket when it is being transported via a hearse.
• On returning home, all family members will bathe and change into fresh clothes.
• The priest will visit the family at home and purify the house with incense.

What to do as a guest for Hindu Funeral

• Guests are advised to dress down when attending a Hindu funeral.
• Wearing white to mourn a Hindu is ideal. Black is also acceptable.