Antim Sanskar - Sikh funeral rites

The Antim Sanskar (translation: final rites) are a set of traditional religious ceremonies that occur during or around a Sikh funeral. According to Sikh religion, these include, but are not limited to:

• Following Sikh rules surrounding the deceased or dying. For example, Amritdhari (initiated) Sikhs would like to ensure the body is cremated with all of the 5 Ks present on the body.

• The preparation of the body, including bathing and a change of clothes.

• The Sikh cremation service, including communal prayers.

• Religious readings after a Sikh funeral usually conducted at the Sikh place of worship called a Gurdwara.

Sikh funerals require for cremation, although burial is permitted if cremation is impossible. A Sikh cremation usually involves ashes being submerged into a nearby river or ocean (somewhere with flowing water), with no monument erected for the person who has passed away.