# Sikh funerals

> A Sikh funeral (Antam Sanskar, the final rite) is usually a cremation. The body is washed and dressed by family with the five Ks left in place; prayers including Kirtan Sohila and Ardas are recited; and the family returns to the gurdwara for a reading of the Guru Granth Sahib (Sahaj Paath) that ends with the Bhog ceremony. Ashes are scattered in running water.

Source: https://funeralfinder.org/faiths/sikh/ — FuneralFinder

## Key facts

- **Burial or cremation:** Cremation is the norm
- **Preparation:** Washed and dressed by family; the five Ks (kesh, kara, kanga, kachera, kirpan) are kept on the body
- **Service:** Prayers at home or gurdwara, Kirtan Sohila at the crematorium and the Ardas prayer
- **After the cremation:** Sahaj Paath — a complete reading of the Guru Granth Sahib — ending with the Bhog / Antim Ardas
- **Ashes:** Scattered in running water, often at Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab or a designated UK river site

## What happens at a Sikh funeral

Sikhs see death as part of God’s will (Hukam) and the soul’s return to the Creator, so the funeral is dignified and restrained rather than overtly mournful. Family members wash and dress the body, making sure a turban is tied for men and the five Ks remain in place.

The coffin may be taken home or to the gurdwara so the congregation can pay respects, then to the crematorium, where hymns are sung and the evening prayer Kirtan Sohila is recited before the Ardas. Afterwards family and friends return to the gurdwara for prayers and langar (the shared meal).

## Sahaj Paath, Bhog and ashes

- Sahaj Paath — a complete, non-continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, usually over about ten days, at home or at the gurdwara.

- Bhog / Antim Ardas — the concluding ceremony, with hymns, a final prayer and karah prasad.

- Ashes — scattered in flowing water. Many families travel to Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab; UK gurdwaras can advise on local designated sites.

- Memorials — Sikhism discourages elaborate monuments, so ashes are rarely kept or buried under a headstone.

Every family and community is different. Use this as a starting point, follow the wishes of the person who died, and ask their faith leader or community for guidance.

## Etiquette

- **What to wear:** Modest clothing in white or muted colours. Everyone covers their head and removes their shoes in the gurdwara. Avoid bringing tobacco or alcohol.
- **What to say:** “Waheguru” or simply offer your condolences; loud displays of grief are generally discouraged.
- **Flowers:** Flowers are acceptable but not essential; many families prefer donations to the gurdwara or a charity.

## FAQs

### Are Sikhs cremated or buried?

Sikhs are usually cremated. Burial is accepted where cremation is not possible.

### What is the Bhog ceremony?

Bhog marks the completion of the Sahaj Paath — a full reading of the Guru Granth Sahib held after the funeral — and includes a final Ardas prayer and karah prasad.

### What should I wear to a Sikh funeral?

Modest clothing in white or muted colours, with your head covered in the gurdwara. Shoes are removed before entering the prayer hall.