Rethinking the Funeral
We’re all familiar with how a typical funeral unfolds — a service, burial or cremation, followed by drinks and a gathering of loved ones. But set aside your idea of a conventional funeral, and allow us to introduce you to the powerful and sacred rituals of Hindu funerals along the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India.
Why Cremation?
In Hindu belief, cremation is essential because it releases the soul from the body, allowing it to continue on the path to reincarnation. The fire is seen as a purifying force, and the soul is said to leave the body through the skull as it burns. Karma plays a major role — the actions of your past life determine the form you’ll take in the next. The soul cycles through many lives based on how you lived the one before.
The Path to Moksha
The ultimate goal for Hindus is to achieve moksha, the liberation from the cycle of rebirth and karma, leading to eternal peace, or nirvana. Cremation along the holy Ganges, followed by scattering of the ashes into its waters, is believed to be the most sacred way to reach this liberation. Every year, thousands travel to Varanasi to be cremated at this sacred site.
The Sacred Ghats of Varanasi
There are 88 ghats — stone steps leading down to the river — along the Ganges in Varanasi. Two of them, Manikarnika and Harishchandra, are specifically dedicated to cremations. Together, they perform around 80 cremations daily. These ghats are cared for by a caste known as the Doms, considered "Untouchables." Their duties include maintaining the eternal flame at the temple — said to have been burning for over 3,500 years, ignited by Lord Shiva himself.
The Doms also oversee the cremation process. This includes selling the necessary wood and assisting with the rituals. In some cases, they even help facilitate the soul’s release by physically ensuring the skull breaks — a key step in the soul's journey.
Rituals and Roles
During cremation, sacred prayers (pujas), hymns, and mantras are recited. The eldest son or another male family member lights the funeral pyre using the eternal flame. A large amount of wood is needed to fully cremate a body, which can make the process financially difficult for some families. The more wealth one has, the more wood can be used — a stark contrast that’s visible even in death.
Once the cremation is complete, the ashes are scattered into the Ganges, allowing the soul to reach moksha.
As part of the mourning ritual, the eldest son shaves his head. This act symbolizes respect for the deceased, humility, and readiness to take on new responsibilities as the head of the family.
Want to Learn More?
Check out this fascinating interview with a barber who works beside the ghats in Varanasi, offering a unique perspective on these sacred traditions.