Anthyesti literally means “the last sacrifice”, and refers to the funeral rites for the dead in Hinduism, which usually involves cremation of the body. This rite of passage is the last samskara in a series of traditional life cycle samskaras that start from conception in Hindu tradition.

We offer all Hindu funeral services with a belief of reincarnation, Which means when someone dies the soul is reincarnated in different physical bodies. The soul (Atman, Brahman) is the essence and immortal that is released at the time we perform Antyeshti ritual, but both the body and the universe are vehicles and transitory in various schools of Hinduism. Among Hindus, the dead body is usually cremated within a day of death.
The dead body is carried to the cremation ground near to a river or water, by family and friends, and placed on a pyre with feet facing to the south. The eldest son, or a male mourner, or a priest then bathes before leading the cremation ceremonial function.

Funeral Meaning in Kannada is ಅಂತ್ಯಕ್ರಿಯೆ (Antyakriye)

Funeral Meaning in Hindhi is अंतिम संस्कार (antim sanskaar)

The Cremation Services an important part of the Hindu funeral ritual, and it traditionally takes place within 24 hours of death.

Today, most Crematoriums can accommodate the traditions and rituals of Hindu Cremation Services. Typically, the casket is carried into the crematorium feet first, while mourners recite prayers. Then the bereaved will circle their loved one in prayer and observe the cremation. Once the Hindu Cremation Service is complete, the service is over and mourners may go home.

What happens after the Hindu funeral?

Traditionally, on the day following a Hindu Funeral Services, the ashes are scattered in the River Ganges considered sacred by the Hindus. Hindus living outside India may choose to repatriate their loved one’s ashes so that they can be spread over the Ganges, but this is not always practical or affordable. Alternatively, many Indians are now choosing to scatter ashes at a local water body or at a preferred place Funeral Home of importance.

Typically, the bereaved mourn for 13 days after a Hindu funeral. During this time, it is customary for families to have a picture of their loved one displayed in the house, adorned with a garland of flowers. Visitors are welcomed during this period and a ritual that helps the soul to reincarnate is performed.

On the first anniversary of the death, the family celebrate a memorial event that honours their loved one’s life.