I am Catholic and am attending a Hindu funeral. What customs and traditions should I be aware of so that I can be respectful ?

Hindu funerals usually take place within 24 hours of death. Friends may call or visit family members of the deceased to offer their condolences upon hearing of the death and may bring flowers to them at that time. The flowers are placed at the feet of the deceased. The body usually remains at home until it is taken to the place where it will be cremated. The funeral ceremony is conducted at the place of the cremation. The coffin is generally open, and guests are expected to look upon the body and be seated in the room for the service, which is conducted by a priest or a senior member of the family. Guests may attend the cremation, but if they do not want to, they may depart after the service.

After the funeral, friends may visit the bereaved, usually bringing gifts of fruit with them.

Creating a permanent memorial to a loved one can not only help with the bereavement process but it also provides a place that you can visit at any time in the future to see your loved one.

You can create an online tribute to your loved one here at Friends At Rest. It takes a couple of minutes, is completely free and will give you a 'place' to reflect and remember the great times you shared.

Everyone knows somebody who deserves to be remembered. Click here and remember yours.

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