I saw a photo here on the site about the Manjkarnika Cremation Ghat. Is everyone in India cremated? I know in a lot of cultures cremation is practiced. I'm just curious about India and how they bury their dead. I think what fascinates me about this practice is the time I spent in Mexico for the "Day of the Dead" festival. Each culture and religion have their own way of sending loved ones off.
Manjkarnika Cremation Ghat At Varanasi
- Thread starter Tyson
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briannagodess
Well-Known Member
Yes, traditionally, all Indians are cremated except babies, children and saints. The casket of the dead is usually carried in a stretcher. Then, the eldest man in the family has to accompany the casket into the cremation site. If we trace back to history, the dead were usually cremated in the Ganges River. The whole family will be there around the pyre built for the dead loved one. It will then be burned and they have to stay there until it's completely burned.
Once completely burned, the funeral is done. A day after the funeral and the cremation, the family has to meet up again and collect the ashes. Traditionally, these ashes should be spread into the Ganges River. But nowadays, it's acceptable to spread the ashes even in other rivers.
I hope this is helpful!
Once completely burned, the funeral is done. A day after the funeral and the cremation, the family has to meet up again and collect the ashes. Traditionally, these ashes should be spread into the Ganges River. But nowadays, it's acceptable to spread the ashes even in other rivers.
I hope this is helpful!
Dhruv
Member
Cremation is the most common funeral practice in India, but it's not mandatory for everyone. Here's a breakdown of how Hindus, the majority religion in India, handle death:
- Cremation: This is the preferred method for most Hindus. It's believed to help the soul detach from the physical body and move towards moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). The Manikarnika Ghat you saw is a famous cremation ground in Varanasi.
- Burial: While less common, there are exceptions for certain groups within Hinduism. Infants, children below 12 years old, pregnant women, saints (sadhus), and people bitten by snakes are traditionally buried.
- Regional customs: Some regional traditions within Hinduism might have specific burial practices for certain situations.
- Economic status: Cremation can be expensive due to the wood and other materials required. In some cases, families might opt for burial due to financial constraints.
- Islam: Muslims in India generally bury their dead facing Mecca, the holy city in Saudi Arabia.
- Christianity: Christians in India typically bury their dead in cemeteries, similar to practices in Western countries.
- Other religions: Zoroastrians (Parsis) have unique practices involving exposure of the deceased in a Tower of Silence for vultures to consume the body.
Manikarnika Ghat – The Eternal Flame of Varanasi
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most sacred and oldest cremation ghats in Varanasi, deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs about moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). It is said that those cremated here attain salvation, making it one of the most sought-after places for Hindus to perform last rites.
The ghat has a sacred fire that has been burning continuously for centuries and is believed to never go out.
It is also associated with Goddess Parvati, whose Manikarnika (earring) is said to have fallen here, hence the name.
Continuous cremation rituals happening 24/7, reinforcing the Hindu belief in life and death.
Doms (traditional cremation workers) overseeing the process, as they have for generations.
Boats offering a view from the Ganges, ideal for those who prefer to observe from a respectful distance.
Photography is discouraged out of respect for mourning families.
It is best visited in the early morning or evening to experience the deeply spiritual aura.
Beware of touts asking for donations—it's best to contribute only through official temple trusts if you wish.
The nearby Manikarnika Kund is another sacred site worth visiting.
By Road: Easily accessible via autos, rickshaws, and taxis from anywhere in Varanasi
By Boat: Many guided tours offer boat rides along the ghats, providing a stunning view of the cremation site from the Ganges.
This place is not for the faint-hearted, but it offers a deep insight into Hindu traditions, life, death, and spirituality.
Have you visited Manikarnika Ghat? Share your experiences or any tips for fellow travelers below!
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most sacred and oldest cremation ghats in Varanasi, deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs about moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). It is said that those cremated here attain salvation, making it one of the most sought-after places for Hindus to perform last rites.
Significance of Manikarnika Ghat:
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva granted moksha (liberation) to souls cremated at this ghat.The ghat has a sacred fire that has been burning continuously for centuries and is believed to never go out.
It is also associated with Goddess Parvati, whose Manikarnika (earring) is said to have fallen here, hence the name.
Experiencing the Ghat – What to Expect?
Visiting Manikarnika Ghat is a profound and surreal experience, unlike any other tourist spot. You will witness: Continuous cremation rituals happening 24/7, reinforcing the Hindu belief in life and death. Doms (traditional cremation workers) overseeing the process, as they have for generations. Boats offering a view from the Ganges, ideal for those who prefer to observe from a respectful distance.Tips for Visitors:
Photography is discouraged out of respect for mourning families. It is best visited in the early morning or evening to experience the deeply spiritual aura. Beware of touts asking for donations—it's best to contribute only through official temple trusts if you wish. The nearby Manikarnika Kund is another sacred site worth visiting.How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat?
By Train: Nearest station – Varanasi Junction (4 km away)By Road: Easily accessible via autos, rickshaws, and taxis from anywhere in Varanasi
By Boat: Many guided tours offer boat rides along the ghats, providing a stunning view of the cremation site from the Ganges.This place is not for the faint-hearted, but it offers a deep insight into Hindu traditions, life, death, and spirituality.
Have you visited Manikarnika Ghat? Share your experiences or any tips for fellow travelers below!