Why Some Bodies Are Never Cremated in India’s Holiest City
INDIA – ln the revered city of Kashi (Varanasi), cremation is believed to grant moksha, freeing souls from the cycle of rebirth.
Thousands of Hindus journey here in their final days, seeking spiritual liberation. However, five specific groups are excluded from cremation due to deeply rooted religious traditions.
At Manikarnika Ghat, funeral pyres burn continuously, yet the remains of sadhus (monks), children under 12, pregnant women, snakebite victims and individuals with skin diseases follow distinct rituals.
Their bodies are either buried, immersed in water, or set afloat in the Ganges, following sacred customs.
Sadhus renounce worldly attachments, symbolizing spiritual transcendence.
Instead of cremation, they receive Jal Samadhi (water burial) or Thal Samadhi (burial in the ground).
Children are considered pure souls and divine manifestations and their remains are buried to honor their innocence.
Pregnant women are exempt from cremation due to concerns that the unborn child may be expelled during the process, which is deemed inappropriate.
Their bodies are respectfully buried.
Victims of snakebites are believed to retain brain activity for up to 21 days post-death. To allow for possible revival by tantric practitioners, their bodies are set afloat in the river, tied to banana stems.
Those who suffer from conditions like leprosy are buried instead of cremated to prevent harmful bacteria from being released into the air.
These ancient practices, upheld for centuries in Varanasi, embody the essence of Hindu beliefs.
Many devout Hindus believe that passing away in Kashi ensures direct passage to Vaikunth, the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu.
For generations, this sacred city has remained a gateway to spiritual freedom, where the eternal flames guide souls toward salvation.
