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Hindu practices
Cremation. Antyesti. The 13-day mourning period.
Hindu funeral rites (antyesti) centre on cremation and the belief in the soul's journey onwards. Practices vary by region, caste and family tradition.
Key practices
- Cremation — the body is traditionally cremated, ideally within 24 hours
- Last rites — family washes the body, places it in white cloth, garlands with flowers
- Lighting the pyre — traditionally by the eldest son; in Australia, pressing the cremation button serves the same role
- Ashes — often scattered in flowing water (a river, the sea)
- Mourning period — typically 13 days of mourning, with rituals on the 10th and 13th days
- Shraddha — annual memorial rites for ancestors
In Australia
Hindu funeral services are available in most Australian cities. Hindu priests (pandits) can be engaged through local temples. Ashes can be scattered in Australian waterways — check local council regulations, as some areas require a permit.
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From bluetulipco.com/library/grief/hindu — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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