Kashi /Banaras/ Varanasi is considered great cremation ground and a pilgrimage for Hindus in Northern India

In Hindu Sanskaras (upbringing) the “Antyeshti” or “Final Sacrifice” in wood fire pyre, after death of a person is the last rite or the final Karma of life. This model is followed throughout India for Hindu cremation though Kashi/ Banaras/ Varanasi is considered as a Mahashmashana: great land of final eternal journey and sacrifice, among all cremation grounds, established by Lord Shiva Himself!

Varanasi, an ancient city in North Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, flourished on the Ganges (river) banks has most sought after and aspirational cremation ground, for all Hindus.

Varanasi is supposed to provide Nirvana or Moksha to seekers, if they complete their journey of life in this Holy land. Nirvana seekers wish to receive their last rites and final sacrifice in this great cremation ground: The Mahashmashana.

The Harishchandra Ghat(river bank stairs and ground) and Manikarnika Ghat are considered the Holy cremation grounds in Varanasi. Hindus all over India, especially in North India, have one last wish to be cremated in Varanasi or at least their ashes finding place in lap of Ma Ganga! They want to be assimilated and offered finally, to river Ganges, to release them from eternal cycle of life and death and wash over all sins of present life. Their last wish is granted and fulfilled by their family members in full faith.

Therefore, the Hindu cremation is last karma, Antim Kriya or Antyeshti or final celebration of life. This celebration takes place in presence of all close ones who shared the life moments with the departed soul. All these near and dear ones are living proof of the, severing of soul from the body, of a life lived!

Unfortunately, this last wish that holds such a big place in life of a Hindu, was not fulfilled, during unprecedented, global pandemic and Oxygen crisis. It was very sad and heart-wrenching situation that is still fresh in our memories. Whole world is witness to such tragical images of mass cremation, that too in absence of close ones, that flashed, news channels globally.

Oh! Traumatic! Thanks to all who came forward to help the country!

Every Hindu is supposed to receive the same final rites after death performed by near and dear ones. Amidst the final journey of the demised person, the chant of “Ram Naam Satya Hai” (“God’s Name is the Truth”)to the river bank are continuous and clear and final sacrifice of the eternal body to the wood pyre, pure ghee (Cow milk fat) incense, parched grain, flowers, Ganga water sprinkles the pyre is ignited. Body is finally assimilated in five elements — air, water, sky, earth and fire and Atma or prana or eternal soul is released.

Rituals and traditions are passed on to the next generation, strengthening the framework and belief on endless cycle of life and death, renewal of Atma in new body, rebirth and salvation!

“Om Shanti” “ Om Shanti”