Hinduism has a strong historical influence on Tamil funeral customs and rituals. What you should know about Tamil funerals is as follows:
Death Announcement: When a member of a Tamil family dies, friends and family members are typically informed of the death by word of mouth. An obituary for the deceased person may also be written and published in local newspapers by close relatives.
Preparing the Body: The deceased's body is typically bathed and dressed in new garments in Tamil culture before being placed in a casket. Thereafter, flowers and scented oils are used to decorate the body.
The Wake: Usually, a Tamil wake is performed at the deceased's house or a nearby temple. People come together to show respect and send their sympathies to the grieving family. Visitors usually bring fruit or flowers to the wake.
Final Journey: Male members of the deceased's family lead the funeral procession. The head is pointed towards the north while the corpse is carried on a bamboo stretcher. In a traditional Tamil funeral procession, hymns of devotion are sung and prayers are recited by the mourners.
Cremation: The dead body of a Tamil Hindu is typically cremated. The oldest son or closest male relative performs the cremation, and he also fires the funeral pyre. It is customary to gather the cremated remains and scatter them in a nearby river or body of water after the cremation.
Mourning Period: The deceased's family members go through a period of grief after the funeral. This time frame, which normally lasts 13 days, prohibits the family from taking part in any celebrations or festivities.
Memorial Service: A memorial service is given to memorialise the departed on the thirteenth day following death. The "thirteenth-day ceremony," as it is often known, is a gathering of family and close friends. Prayers, hymns, and food offerings to the gods are all part of the event.
In conclusion, Tamil funerals are a fusion of traditional Hindu practises and contemporary rituals. They provide a chance for family and friends to gather together and grieve in a sympathetic environment and are characterised by a profound veneration for the departed soul.
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