Death and Mourning in Hinduism: Customs and Rituals

After the death of a parent in a Hindu family, several rituals are performed to honor the deceased and facilitate their soul’s journey to the afterlife. 

These rituals are deeply rooted in Hinduism and are designed to ensure the soul’s safe passage to the afterlife. 

Here are the key steps and customs involved:

Immediate Steps

The first step is to prepare the body for the rituals. The body is laid on the floor with the head facing south, which is considered auspicious in Hinduism. 

A lamp is lit near the body, and a picture of a deity may be placed beside it to symbolize the connection between the deceased and the divine. 

The family also arranges for the body to be washed and dressed in simple, preferably white clothes. This helps to purify the body and prepare it for the cremation ceremony.

Antyeshti (Last Rites)

The next step is the Antyeshti, or last rites, which involve a series of rituals performed by the eldest son or a close male relative. 

The body is taken in a procession to the cremation ground, where it is cremated. Specific mantras are recited, and offerings such as ghee, wood, and herbs are made to the fire. 

The chief mourner, usually the eldest son, performs the ‘mukhagni’ ritual, where he lights the funeral pyre. 

This marks the end of the body and the beginning of the soul’s journey to the afterlife.

Cremation Ceremony

The cremation ceremony begins with the recitation of specific mantras, which are believed to guide the soul towards the afterlife. 

These mantras are chosen for their spiritual significance and are believed to have a profound impact on the soul’s journey. 

The mantras are recited by the priest or the chief mourner, who is usually the eldest son of the deceased.

13-Day Mourning Period (Shraddha)

After the cremation, the family enters a 13-day mourning period, known as Shraddha. During this time, the family avoids festivities and refrains from eating certain foods like onions, garlic, and meat. 

Daily prayers and rituals are performed to aid the soul’s journey to the afterlife. The family also displays a photo of the deceased in their home, adorned with flowers, to honor their memory.

Sapindikarana (13th Day)

The Sapindikarana ceremony is a significant ritual in Hinduism that marks the end of the mourning period and signifies the merging of the deceased person’s soul with their ancestors. 

This ceremony is typically performed on the 13th day after the death and is considered a crucial step in the Hindu funeral rites.

Post-Cremation Rituals

The post-cremation rituals include several ceremonies designed to help the soul rise to heaven. 

The closest relatives immerse the ashes in holy water, a ritual known as Niravapanjali, to facilitate the soul’s ascent. 

The family also performs Tarpana, a sacred offering to deities to help the departed soul enter Svarga (heaven). 

Additionally, the eldest surviving male member of the family ties a turban, known as Rasam Pagri, to appoint his heir and signify the transition of responsibility for the family.

Longer Mourning Period

The immediate family of the deceased is considered in mourning for a year following the death. 

During this time, some traditions limit or restrict participation in festivals and events, as well as discourage making life-altering decisions like changing jobs or moving. 

On the one-year anniversary of the death, a memorial service is held in the family home, involving prayers, scripture readings, and chanting. 

Food is served following the ceremony to honor the memory of the deceased.

These rituals are an integral part of Hindu funeral customs and are designed to ensure the soul’s safe passage to the afterlife. 

They provide a framework for the family to navigate the grieving process and honor the memory of their loved one.