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Hinduism
Hindus, peoples of India, prefer to hold funeral rites before the sun goes down on the day of death. Traditionally, the first son presides at the service with a Hindu priest. The service is held at the funeral home.
Although not part of the Hindu tradition, it is appropriate to send flowers or donations. While mourners wear white, visitors are asked to wear subdued colours.
At the funeral service, the family may put flowers on the deceased, who is placed in a simple wooden casket.
Emotions will vary depending on the circumstances of the death. If the person is old he or she is regarded as being blessed, having led a full life, and the soul is ready to return to God. As a result, there is little outward grieving at the funeral. As part of the ritual blessing, a thread may be tied around the neck or wrist of the deceased. It should not be removed by family of friends.
Religions, such as Hinduism, that believe in reincarnation of the soul cremate their members. While all Hindu adults are cremated, deceased children are usually buried. Another short service is also held at the crematorium. In some cases, at the end of this service the eldest son or some accommodated by the cremation operator.
After the service the family is expected to enter a period of formal grieving which lasts a minimum of seven days or longer depending on their social status. During this period the family will sit home and talk. No food is prepared in the house, but people come to the house to talk with the family and feed them. At the end of this period the family sponsors a feast for close friends and relatives.
The cremated remains of the deceased are usually scattered in Ganges River. If death occurs elsewhere the cremated remains are returned to India for scattering. Other methods of final disposition may also be chosen.
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