Antam Sanskar (Funeral) « Punjabi Traditions

Sikh Funeral

According to Sikh tradition, death is part of human life cycle “Ava Guvan” and a stage to reach “Nirvana” meaning final union with the God. The death ceremony is split into two parts, Sanskar, the cremation and the Antam Ardas, the final prayer.
The tradition starts with washing the body and dressing with clean clothes. The body will be burnt on the funeral pyre or taken to crematorium. Burial and submergence at the sea or river are also acceptable methods among Sikhs. As a general rule any public display of grief during the ceremony is not allowed. The cremation is performed by the eldest son or in his absence, by other close relative. As the body is being cremated, Kirtan Sohila, the bed time prayer is recited and Ardas offered. The ashes collected are disposed in the sea or nearest river. Some Sikh families living in other countries prefer to take the ashes to Punjab.
The second part Antam Ardas consists of final prayer, the complete reading of Guru Granth Sahib for ten days. This may be held in a Gurudwara or at home. The reading is meant to provide spiritual support to the family of the deceased and to seek blessing of the God to the departed soul.

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