Internment of remains in various cultures. (Hindu open pyre cremations)

Hindu cremation, a deeply ingrained and spiritual practice, plays a crucial role in the life cycle rituals of this ancient religion. Rooted in Hindu beliefs about the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, cremation serves as a profound way to release the soul from the body, allowing it to embark on its next journey. This practice holds immense cultural significance, reflecting not only spiritual beliefs but also the intricate tapestry of Hindu philosophy and social norms.

In Hinduism, death is viewed as a transition rather than an end. The soul, or "atman," is believed to be eternal, undergoing multiple cycles of birth and rebirth until it attains "moksha" – liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Cremation is seen as a crucial step in this journey. The process involves burning the body on an open-air pyre, often along the banks of a sacred river such as the Ganges.

One of the fundamental beliefs underpinning Hindu cremation is the concept of "karma." Hindus believe that actions in one's current life influence their future lives. Cremation symbolizes the dissolution of the physical body and the return of its five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) to the universe. By releasing the soul from the constraints of the body, the departed can progress to their next life based on their accumulated karma.

The place of cremation is of great significance. Rivers, particularly the Ganges, are revered in Hinduism for their spiritual cleansing properties. Cremating a body by the river is believed to facilitate the soul's transition to the afterlife and cleanse it of any residual negative energy. The ashes of the deceased are often immersed in the river, a ritual known as "ashes immersion" or "ashes scattering," further symbolizing the return of the body's elements to the universe.

The rituals surrounding Hindu cremation are multi-faceted and vary across regions and communities. The immediate family typically performs the rituals, which can include chanting of sacred verses, lighting of the funeral pyre, and circumambulation of the pyre. In some cases, the eldest son is responsible for lighting the pyre, signifying the continuity of the family's lineage and the sacred duty of honoring the deceased.

While Hindu cremation is rooted in spiritual beliefs, it also aligns with environmental principles. The traditional practice of open-air cremation allows the body to return to nature in a natural and efficient manner, without the use of toxic embalming chemicals or non-biodegradable coffins. This harmonious approach to death reflects Hinduism's respect for the interconnectedness of all living beings and the environment.

In recent times, as Hinduism has spread across the globe, the practice of cremation has faced challenges. Crematoriums equipped with modern technology, such as electric cremation furnaces, have emerged to address issues related to space, environmental concerns, and urbanisation.