Hindu Funeral Traditions
Hindu Funeral Traditions
Living in an area as diverse as Corona and Riverside means that our staff has the pleasure of serving families from a variety of faith traditions. Here at Thomas Miller Mortuary & Crematory, we pride ourselves on helping families honor their loved ones in a way that is true to their cultural, ethnic, and spiritual backgrounds. This includes caring for our Hindu friends and neighbors.
While there are many variations of Hinduism, each with differing customs and beliefs, most Hindus believe in reincarnation. This means that when someone dies, their soul passes into a different physical body or life form. This belief sets the framework for the rituals that are followed.
Hindus prefer to die at home surrounded by their loved ones. Following the death, it is customary to visit the family in their home to offer sympathy. Visitors should wear simple white clothing and view the person who died quietly and respectfully without touching them. The deceased rests in a simple casket adorned with flowers, with a necklace of wooden beads draped around their neck. A Hindu priest will lead funeral rites in the home, including hymns and specially written chants or mantras. Family and friends will surround the casket reciting these chants.
Hindus believe that cremation is the fastest way for the soul to escape the body, and this traditionally takes place within 24 hours of a death. After the funeral rites, the person who died is moved from the home to the cremation facility. At Thomas Miller Mortuary & Crematory, we own and operate our own crematory and are able to accommodate the wishes of the family. The casket is typically carried in feet first while loved ones recite prayers. Typically, the eldest son or male in the family presides, with the priest overseeing the cremation. Once the cremation is complete, loved ones go home and sometimes gather with family members for a reception.
Learn More About Hindu Funeral Traditions
Traditionally, the cremated remains are scattered the day after the funeral. In India, remains are scattered in the Ganges River, which the Hindus consider to be sacred. Outside of India, remains are often scattered at a local body of water or another place of significance.
Those left behind welcome visitors for the next 13 days, as they grieve and perform a ritual to help the soul reincarnate. They usually display a photo of their loved one at home, along with flowers, and sometimes a banquet, to honor the journey of the soul.
On the first anniversary of the death, Hindus take part in a memorial event to honor their loved one’s life.
Are you are interested in learning about the funeral traditions of other cultures and religions? Visit the Multicultural Services page on our website. If you have questions about our services, or if you are interested in preplanning your own arrangements so you can be sure your wishes are followed, reach out to us today.