Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult journeys any of us will face. In the midst of grief, there can be a deep sense of isolation, a feeling that you are expected to make important decisions while navigating an overwhelming rollercoaster of emotions. For many families, particularly within the Asian community, there is also the added responsibility of honouring religious beliefs and traditions in the right way.
Whether you are deeply religious, spiritually minded, or somewhere in between, arranging a Hindu funeral or ashes ceremony ritual can feel daunting. There are often many voices offering advice on what should be done, when it should be done, and how it should be done, which can leave families feeling uncertain and anxious at a time when clarity and reassurance are most needed.
This blog has been written by me in response to the many families who have contacted me seeking gentle, informed guidance.
Who I Am and How I Support Hindu Families
I am Sonal Dave, a Hindu Brahmin and an experienced Hindu Celebrant specialising in funerals, memorial ceremonies, and the scattering of ashes. I work with families across the UK who are seeking a ceremony that is respectful, meaningful, and aligned with Hindu beliefs, whether religious, spiritual, or somewhere in between.
My role is to support you during an incredibly vulnerable time, to listen carefully, explain traditions clearly, and guide you with calm compassion. I understand the cultural expectations, the emotional weight, and the practical considerations that come with loss. I do not believe in rigid templates. Instead, I help families create ceremonies that honour their loved one’s life, values, and journey, while remaining sensitive to modern family dynamics, accessibility needs, and individual beliefs.
Hindu Beliefs Around Ashes and Reincarnation
Central to Hindu philosophy is the belief in reincarnation and the soul’s journey towardsmoksha, liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The immersion of ashes in flowing water symbolises the release of the physical body and supports the soul’s onward journey.
Traditionally, many Hindus believe that immersing ashes in the River Ganges at Varanasi enables the soul to attain peace and liberation. However, for families living in the UK, many now choose meaningful alternatives that honour the same spiritual intention.
Ashes may be respectfully scattered:
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In rivers within the UK
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At the sea, symbolising continuity and flow
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From a boat or from the shoreline or riverbank
What matters most is not the location alone, but the intention, prayers, and reverence with which the ceremony is carried out.
What Can Be Included in a Hindu Ashes or Memorial Ceremony?
Every ceremony I create is personalised. There is no single “correct” format, and you may already have ideas that are meaningful to you and your family. I will always listen first and guide gently.
Elements may include:
Readings, Mantras, and Shlokas
From sacred texts, prayers, poems, songs, or words that held personal meaning.
Music and Singing
Recorded or live music. Where appropriate, I can sing prayers, bhajans, hymns, or meaningful songs, with live music.
Puja Elements (used sensitively and by choice)
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Camphor or a diya/tea light
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Agarbathi (loban incense)
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Guggal (used mindfully for allergies)
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Unity candles for shared participation
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Biodegradable urns
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Floating biodegradable candles
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Dry flowers
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Water based paper to leave a last message
Participation can be collective or led by one family member and always guided by what feels right for you.
Practical Guidance for Scattering of Ashes Ceremonies in the UK
To further support families, I have written The Hindu Scattering of Ashes Booklet in collaboration with Scattering Ashes. This guide explains:
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What UK law allows
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Practical considerations
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How to carry out an ashes puja ceremony respectfully
It is designed to bring reassurance and clarity when families are already carrying emotional weight.
Watch: A Hindu Ashes Ceremony Explained with Care
For those who find it helpful to see and hear how a ceremony may unfold, I have also shared a short video explaining Hindu ashes ceremonies with compassion and clarity.
🎥 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/-JwABQNa3x0?si=T5eiTlC4a7wKvs4n
https://youtu.be/-JwABQNa3x0?si=T5eiTlC4a7wKvs4n
This video offers gentle insight into the supportive role of a Hindu Celebrant, helping families feel more prepared and less alone.
What Families Say
“Sonal guided us through one of the hardest moments of our lives with such calm, compassion, and understanding. She explained everything clearly, respected our beliefs, and created a ceremony that truly honoured our loved one. We felt supported every step of the way.”
Supporting You Through a Difficult Time
As a Hindu Celebrant, my role is to walk alongside you. Whether you are seeking a traditional religious ceremony, a spiritual farewell, or a blend of both, I will help you create a final goodbye that is respectful, symbolic, and deeply personal. However, if it is a religious priest that you would prefer, I can direct you to one.
I am based in London and can travel to support families across the UK.
If you would like gentle, culturally informed guidance during this difficult time, please do reach out.
You do not have to do this journey alone.
