Nepal- Death rituals: Done mainly by Hindu in Nepal, not specific to any ethnic groups.

Religion: As Nepal is majority Hindu, for families of that faith, loved ones are cremated with a traditional ceremony after they pass away.

• They are guided by ancient scriptures like Garuda Purana to ensure that the soul moves onto the next life or attains liberation from the cycle of rebirth

• The corpses are wrapped in all white or with bits of red with garlands of marigolds (similar to other cultures’ death traditions such as Dia de Los Muertos) those wrapped around them where bodies are laid in the length of the pyres
• Bodies are then immersed in the river (the ashes)
• Ceremonies goodies include: setting out milk and rice balls

Mourning period: Last for 10-13 days when family members or close relatives are considered “impure”

• These individuals cannot eat certain foods like meat or salt, or partake in festival celebrations
• Mourners also do the following things: fast, bathe, pray, wear white clothing, prepare food without salt

Antyesthi (translated to last sacrifice):

• When death arrives, relatives and the priest are gathered. Mantras and sacred texts are recited, along with ceremonial gifts.
• Final cremation rites are performed ideally by the eldest son of the deceased.
• Once the deceased is cremated, it symbolizes the return of the physical elements
• Where are they done: in temples, the most popular being Pasputhinath which is home to a major cremation site.