The Hindu funeral ceremony, or Antyesti, is a sacred ritual that marks the final journey of the soul. The ceremony typically involves the following steps:
Cremation: The body of the deceased is typically cremated, either on a funeral pyre or in a cremation chamber.
Prayers and rituals: Family members and friends may offer prayers and perform various rituals to honor the deceased and to help the soul transition to the next life.
Scattering of ashes: After the cremation, the ashes may be scattered in a river, a lake, or the sea, or they may be buried in a cemetery.
Observances: The family of the deceased may observe certain customs and rituals during the days and weeks following the funeral, such as making offerings to the gods, lighting lamps or incense, or observing fasts or vows.
The specifics of the Hindu funeral ceremony may vary depending on the region, the caste, and the personal beliefs and customs of the deceased and their family. The Hindu funeral ceremony is an important part of Hinduism and is believed to bring peace and liberation to the soul of the deceased.