What happens at a Sikh funeral?

Sikh beliefs hold that the physical body serves as a vessel for the soul, thus cremation is typically preferred, although burial is also accepted without the inclusion of a headstone or monument.

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Both organ donation and the donation of the body to medical science are permissible in Sikh tradition.

Funeral ceremonies commonly occur at a Gurdwara (Sikh temple), as well as at the family residence or a crematorium.

During Sikh funerals, the coffin may be briefly opened if the body is brought home or at the Gurdwara before cremation, but it generally remains closed.

Preparation before the funeral begins promptly after death, ideally within three days. The deceased is washed and dressed at the funeral home by older family members or friends of the same gender. The body is bathed with yogurt for softening followed by soap and warm water. After bathing, the deceased is clothed in fresh garments, with the five articles of faith (Karkars) remaining with the body. The body is then kept at the funeral home overnight.

On the day of the funeral, the body may briefly return home for prayers lasting 15-20 minutes, which can be led by a priest or any member of the community.

A Sikh funeral service typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour and can vary in format. Following prayers at the home, the body may be taken to the Gurdwara for additional prayers for about 20 minutes. Mourners must remove shoes, wash hands, and cover heads before entering. Prayers are said over the body in a separate room or corridor. The coffin is then transported to the crematorium where Sohila prayers are recited, followed by final prayers asking for the soul's liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Non-Sikh guests are not expected to participate in prayers and readings but are encouraged to sit quietly and observe.

After cremation, the family returns to the Gurdwara for further prayers lasting approximately 45 minutes, followed by the serving of vegetarian meals to guests. Traditionally, food might not be served after the death of a young person, but this practice is becoming less common.

Sikh mourning practices do not include specific periods or rituals. The return to the Gurdwara may coincide with the completion of the recitation of Guru Granth Sahib, which can take up to 48 hours and is often read by members of the priestly class.

Ashes are typically scattered in running water, a practice increasingly seen in the UK but also conducted in holy places overseas.

Appropriate attire for Sikh funerals usually consists of modest, dark-colored clothing with heads covered—men with hats or caps, and women with headscarves. If uncertain, it's advisable to consult the family of the deceased for guidance on attire.

Many families contact us to ask for Funeral Streaming Services as well as Funeral Videography & Funeral Photography services for all religions and beliefs for Funerals. Please take a look round our website to see if we can help you