Preparation of the Body:

Washing and Dressing: If death happens at a hospital, there will be an allocated site for the washing of the body. If the death happens at home, then the body can be washed only after the certification of death either at home or at a funeral parlour like ours. Family members are strongly advised to partake in the washing and dressing process. Genitals of the corpse will be covered with a small towel throughout the process. The standard protocol is to have the clothes and bandages removed before cleansing the body with yoghurt and water. Shower cream is then applied afterwards. After drying, the body will be dressed with the Kachhera, followed by other clothes of the decedent. The body will then be placed in the coffin. Take note that embalming of the body would be required should there be a funeral wake or should the cremation be delayed.

Funeral Wake Service:

Location: The funeral wake can be held at home or at a funeral parlour. Prayer recordings (kirtan) are to be played continuously beside the body. Sukhmani Sahib Paath may be recited before loading the coffin into the hearse on the final day.

Cremation Service:

Cremation is the preferred method for the final disposition of the body. At the crematorium, the coffin is usually unloaded and carried by family members into the viewing hall. This is done with at least 8 family members. Vairag Mai Bani Slok Mahal 9/ Simran will be played and family and friends can pay their respect by placing flowers on the decedent. Family and friends would then offer condolences to the bereaved family members who are usually standing beside the coffin at Mandai Crematorium. Eulogies are often shared. Permission is sought from the almighty to cremate the body while reciting the Ardaas. Everyone will proceed to the viewing hall before heading over to the Gurdwara for a short prayer after the cremation. At the viewing hall, the Simran is recited.

Ash Collection:

Ashes are to be retrieved the following morning with the Giani Ji. Ashes are to be placed in a guthi with the Ardass being recited. Sea burial is then conducted.

Sikh funerals are solemn occasions that reflect deep spiritual beliefs and cultural practices. Attendees are expected to dress modestly and participate respectfully in the ceremonies. Understanding and honoring these traditions is essential when supporting Sikh friends or community members during times of loss.

Sikh funeral practices embody a profound acceptance of death as a natural part of life. The rituals and customs are designed to honor the deceased, provide comfort to the bereaved, and reinforce the community's shared beliefs in the soul's journey towards ultimate unity with the Divine.