Understanding Hindu Death Rituals for the Mother: A Journey of Farewell in Bangalore

The passing of a mother is one of the most difficult losses in a Hindu family. There are many traditional rituals performed to honor the deceased mother and support her journey into the afterlife. Here we outline the common rites and ceremonies involved in the days and months after a Hindu mother’s death.

Immediate Death Rituals

Closing the Eyes

The first ritual is closing the eyes of the deceased. This is usually done by the eldest son or closest relative. It signifies bidding farewell to the mortal body.

Lamp Lighting

A lamp using sesame or mustard oil is lit near the deceased. This symbolizes enlightenment for the departed soul’s journey ahead.

Bathing and Dressing

The body is bathed and dressed in new clothes for dignity in cremation. Married women are dressed in their bridal red saree.

Anointing with Oil, Sandalwood, and Flowers

The body is anointed with sandalwood paste, oils, and flowers like jasmine and rose. This prepares the body for its last rites.

The Cremation Ceremony

Cremation is usually performed within a day of death in Hinduism. The chief mourner (typically the eldest son) leads the procession to the crematorium. After final prayers, the body is placed on the pyre and set ablaze. This releases the soul from its earthly form.

Collection of Ashes

After cremation, the remains are collected. The ashes are either dispersed in holy waters or kept for immersion rituals later.

Post-Cremation Rituals

Terahi

This 13-day mourning period is marked by food restrictions and prayers for the departed. A priest conducts rituals on the 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 13th days.

Prasad Offering

On the 13th day, prasad offerings are made in the mother’s name to honor her spirit.

Kriya Ceremony

This culminates terahi on the 13th day. It purifies the family and concludes the mourning rituals.

Monthly Observances

Monthly death anniversaries are observed for a year. Food and offerings are made in the mother’s memory on these days.

Yearly Rituals

The yearly death anniversary is solemnly honored through tarpan rituals. Food and offerings are given to priests and the needy in her name.

Finding Closure Through Funeral Services

The traditional rituals after a Hindu mother’s death signify grief, honor and most importantly, wish the departing soul peace and blessings. The ceremonies bring closure and help the family transition this loss positively. Hindu funeral services in Bangalore provide guidance in correctly performing the rites for families in the city. Their funeral services in Bangalore help relatives carry out the death ceremonies with care and as per ancestral traditions.