What Happens at a Hindu Funeral?
As one of the world's major religions, Hindu funerals happen all over the world these days. As such, Australian funeral homes need to be well-versed in Hindu funeral rites along with many other types of Asian funerals. If you are wondering about Hindu funeral practices and Asian funerals more generally, then the following will serve to guide you. Funerals can and do differ from individual to individual and from family to family in Australia.
Body Preparation
Most Hindus agree that the body must be prepared as a part of a typical funeral service. Usually, the body will be washed. Ghee, milk and yoghurt tend to be used for this purpose. In some cases, honey may also be used. Next, essential oils will be used to keep the body fresh. Men have sandalwood placed on their heads while, for females, turmeric is more common. Often a lamp will be placed near the head of the deceased and water may be sprinkled on it, too.
Dressing the Deceased
Prior to the funeral, the deceased will have his or her feet tied together at the big toes. Hands will be brought together in a prayer-like position. The traditional way for the body to be dressed is in a simple white sheet that is wrapped around rather tightly. This is something that certainly goes on in Australia today but it is more common for the deceased to be dressed in smart clothing, usually a business suit in the case of men. Most bodies are then adorned with a garland and pinda which are little balls of ceremonial rice.
Coffin and Service
Typically, an Asian funeral of this type held in the West will involve the body being placed into a coffin ready for the service. Often, although not always, the coffin will be left open. Pallbearers will convey the coffin feet first. Members of the family and a Hindu officiant will usually lead the service. Mourners are usually asked to wear white clothing for Hindu funerals.
Cremation and Mourning
Like Buddhists, Hindus believe that the soul of the departed will be reincarnated. Therefore, like other Asian funerals that are held in Australia, the body will be cremated after the service since, after death, it serves no worldly purpose. Funeral homes that stage Hindu services must, therefore, have a suitable crematorium or access to one. Most services run for about half an hour with a subsequent mourning period for the family of about three weeks. Again, this will depend on the family concerned.
