SWAHA’s underpinning philosophy is ‘enlightened ritualism’ and it is on this foundation that we have been making adaptations to our ceremonies for many years as time, place and circumstances continue to change. We modify our after-death ceremonies time and again, due to varying conditions, yet the inner meaning of the rituals adheres strictly to the philosophy. In fact, the publication titled, ‘What You Need To Know About Hindu Death Ceremonies’ was done by SWAHA in 2016 and is a most-needed guide in changing circumstances.
In light of the continued impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, and faced with the restrictions and safety requirements at this time, it is necessary to carry out the death ceremonies simply and without additional burden.
With regard to the shaving ceremony, we advise that it is not compulsory to perform this ceremony at a river, nor is it necessary to have five persons engaged in this ritual. It is advisable that this ritual should be carried out at home and with modifications. The following steps should be done on the morning of the given day by the individual who has prepared to perform the after-death ceremonies:
1. Shave or trim the hair
2. Take a full bath.
3. Offer water on newly-planted kush grass
4. Make offerings to the lower forms of creation. Offerings can be sweet rice.
These practices are meant to bring psychological closure to the family members and to repay debts of gratitude owed by the departed to society. The modified post funeral rites, not only allow for adhering to the restrictions and safety requirements set out by the Ministry of Health, but more importantly, facilitate a simplified ceremony, thereby reducing the onerous burden, including expenses, for the bereaved family. It is useful to be reminded of the fact that these death rituals which are still carried out according to the texts which were penned many years ago in India, have been given up by Hindus there.
SWAHA advises its members to contact their Spiritual Leaders for further guidance as needed.
To interested members of the public, SWAHA can be contacted at 674-7384.
His Holiness Paramacharya Pt. Hardeo Persad
Spiritual Head of SWAHA
Medal of Merit (Gold).
