Singapore Hindu Funerals

The main elements of a Hindu Funeral are the same but differ among different sects and groups of the Hindu religion.

Cremation or Burial

In Singapore, a Hindu Funeral Wake typically lasts a day, culminating in the body being cremated at Mandai Crematorium. Cremation is the preferred method of body disposition as the body is thought of just that, having no specific significance. The cremation of the physical body is thought to be the most efficient method to release the soul to allow the soul to proceed onto reincarnation. There are instances where Hindus are being buried as well.

Hindu Funeral Wake

Since a funeral wake for a Hindu is usually only a day, professional embalming may not be needed. It is still strongly advisable to allow us to professionally cleanse the body and apply light natural make up as family members and friends would visit the funeral wake to pay respects.

In Singapore, the one-day Hindu Funeral wakes are mostly being held at the deceased’s own home. The Hindu funeral rites will be led by a Hindu Priest and guided by the funeral director. Mantras will be chanted while the deceased’s body will be washed with ghee, honey, milk and yoghurt. The deceased’s palms will be placed together and big toes tied together. Essential oils are also placed on the head of the deceased. All these are done with the coffin lid being opened, where the deceased’s body will be in full view of visitors.

Beautiful and nice-smelling garlands are often placed around the decedent ini the coffin. An oil lamp will be placed next to the deceased’s head to symbolise that the soul is lit and this will remain beyond the end of the cremation.

Hindu Funeral Hearse

At the time of departure, a Hindu Funeral Hearse will arrive to bring the body in the coffin to the crematorium or burial ground. A Hindu Funeral Hearse in Singapore is the biggest hearse of all religions and it is easily identified by the loud music being played as it transports the body to the final resting place. It is believed that the louder the music is, the more respect is provided to the dead as it is a grander send off. It is common to see real flowers and cattle statutes as decorations on Hindu Funeral Hearses in Singapore.

Fun fact: evening cremation slots at Mandai Crematorium are set aside for Hindus to accommodate their religious beliefs.

Hindu Funeral Rites At The Crematorium

Upon arriving at Mandai Crematorium, the coffin will be carried by the family members into the service hall while reciting prayers. The coffin lid will be removed where visitors can view the body a final time. “Mukhagni” will be conducted An earthen pot fliled with water is carried by the son of the deceased as he walks around the body. He has to carry the pot on the left shoulder and has to throw the pot backwards to break it into pieces. The breaking of the pot symbolises the cutting of relationship ties between the deceased and the son, who traditionally lights the pyre. Water is a symbolism of life and breaking the pot of water signifies the end of this life for the deceased. After the rituals are completed, cremation will be done.

Post Funeral Rites

Even though the official Hindu funeral rites only lasts for a day or two in Singapore, the mourning period can last up to 30 days.

and in the past, cremations would take place on the Ganges River in India.

Harmony Funeral Care has related companies that can help you with the arrangement of a Hindu Funeral with ease. Call us now for immediate assistance.