Funeral Procession - Hinduism

Hinduism

A funeral procession in Hinduism normally takes place from the house of the deceased to the cremation ground and is normally an all-male affair. The eldest son leads the procession followed by others. Contrary to western traditions, the procession leaves as soon as possible after death and mourners chant the name of god en route to the crematorium. The body itself is bathed and wrapped in a white sheet, carried to the cremation ground on a bamboo stretcher. The son leading the procession carries a fire pot when he leaves the house, which is used to light the funeral pyre.