Supporting Hindu Funeral Traditions with Respect and Understanding

Since 1873, Rowland Brothers have been dedicated to supporting the cultural traditions of Hindu funerals in Croydon and South London.

When someone dies, the days that follow can feel overwhelming. Knowing who to call, what needs to happen and in what order – it’s a lot to think about when you’re also grieving. Not to mention the enormity of the decisions and tasks at hand.

Here at Rowland Brothers, we’ve been supporting families across Croydon and South London since 1873. Over that time, we’ve worked closely with Hindu families as well as a range of other cultural backgrounds and faiths. Arranging a funeral is a sacred process. It carries real spiritual significance for the person who has died and for everyone they’ve left behind.

Understanding Hindu Traditions

Hindu funerals or ‘Antyesti’ (often called the last sacrifice) revolve around helping the soul move peacefully on to the next life. These ceremonies typically encompass the following:

  • A lamp is placed near the departed’s head and prayers are recited – families may choose to spend time with their loved one, either at home or in a chapel of rest
  • A traditional cremation as soon as possible, often within 24 hours where circumstances allow – though UK legal requirements can affect timing
  • The chief mourner (usually the eldest son) leads the ceremony
  • Ashes are collected and may be scattered locally or in a sacred river or body of water

We are devoted to supporting each of these traditions with the utmost respect and care.

Hindu Funeral Traditions

Understanding Hindu Traditions

Hindu funerals or ‘Antyesti’ (often called the last sacrifice) revolve around helping the soul move peacefully on to the next life. These ceremonies typically encompass the following:

  • A lamp is placed near the departed’s head and prayers are recited – families may choose to spend time with their loved one, either at home or in a chapel of rest
  • A traditional cremation as soon as possible, often within 24 hours where circumstances allow – though UK legal requirements can affect timing
  • The chief mourner (usually the eldest son) leads the ceremony
  • Ashes are collected and may be scattered locally or in a sacred river or body of water

We are devoted to supporting each of these traditions with the utmost respect and care.

Hindu Funeral Traditions

We understand that a Hindu funeral is a ceremony which is simultaneously a sad event yet a celebration of the soul’s onward journey. Antyeshti is a deeply personal act of faith and it deserves to be handled sensitively and respectfully.

We’re used to working alongside families where customs differ slightly, whether that’s North Indian, South Indian, Gujarati, Bengali or any other walk of life. Hinduism is vast. So, we don’t assume we know your family’s way of doing things — we ask.

Hindu Funeral Traditions

The Royal Pavilion was used as a hospital for Indian soldiers, including Hindus, and the ashes of those who died were scattered in the sea at Brighton between the two piers. This area has since become regarded as a place to conduct such scatterings locally — Rowland Brothers can assist with such matters.

How We Support Hindu Families in Croydon 

Collaboration with Pandits, faith leaders or community members

Support for large gatherings at home, in a funeral home, or crematorium

Arrangements for repatriation if your loved one is returning to their country of origin

Guidance through cultural or religious requirements

Flexible funeral formats, from traditional services to celebrations of life

We handle the practical side so your family can focus on what matters during this tough time.

That means collecting your loved one promptly and caring for them with complete respect. We can liaise with your Pandit directly, coordinate with the crematorium, and help arrange the procession if your family wants one. We’re also experienced in the preparation of the body, including washing and dressing in accordance with Hindu tradition.

Contact Us

Hindu traditions means that funerals tend to happen quickly or as fast as legal requirements allow, and we’re able to expedite arrangements without compromising on what matters.

If you’re looking for support, call us on 0800 0789 636 – we’re here 24 hours a day.

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