Hinduism

The funeral rituals of every religion are different yet they have their similarities. When one passes, the process always begins with preparation which often includes the washing of the body. The next step in the process is the funeral procession which is filled with many rituals of profound significance. And finally, the deceased is laid to rest. No matter the race or religion: the living carries out these rituals to help the dead rest in peace. Each ritual is crucial and holds significant meaning. Unfortunately, cultural heritage loss is inevitable. Over time, some practices have been overlooked or completely forgotten. The significance of each practice may have faded too.

Preparation of Body

Funeral procession

Burial/cremation

Religion

Scene of a Chinese funeral procession.jpg

Taoism

Hinduism

Islam

Religion

Hinduis

Though they may be of the same Hindu faith, the practices may differ depending on whether they are a Northern or Southern Indian for example. For example, for the entire duration of the funeral procession, a lamp has to be placed in front of the deceased’s portrait. This lamp represents the light that will guide the soul back home. However, the length of this procession and thus the number of days that the lamp must remain lit depends on whether or not the deceased was a Northern or Southern Indian.

Hindu Death Practises in Contemporary Singapore

2015

Video
20 min 13s

This video discusses the adaptations that have been made to Hindu funeral rituals over the years and touch on the symbolic meaning behind the practises that are currently being practised.

Credit: Video made by NTU History Student

A Hindu funeral procession

1938

Gelatin Print
5.7 x 8.2 cm

Collection of National Museum of Singapore

Family members and relatives of the deceased often walk behind the grand funeral hearse whilst it is on its way to the crematorium which continues to be observed today.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Hindu Funeral

1886 - 1888

Albumen photographs
20.3 x 26.4 cm

Collection of National Museum of Singapore

Cremation of the body is the tradition in Hindu funeral ceremonies as it is believed to be the fastest way for the soul to escape the body.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Rama, Lakshmana and Sita performing death rites for Dasharatha

Early 19th Century

Gouche and gold on paper
41 x 53 cm

Collection of Asian Civilisation Museum

Rama is offering a 'shraddha' (making a ball of rice) while Lakshmana and Sita are performing the ancient rite of 'tarpan' (offering water to the deceased) in the river Mandakini

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg