Guide to Sikh Funerals

Sikhi teaches that death is not an ending but a transition — the soul returning to Waheguru (God). The Sikh approach to death and mourning is rooted in acceptance, prayer, and celebration of the life lived. At Gills Funeral Care, we understand these beliefs deeply and are honoured to guide families through every step with care, respect, and cultural understanding.

In Sikh belief, the soul is immortal and passes through a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth until it merges with the divine light of Waheguru. Death is therefore not feared but accepted as Waheguru's will — known as Hukam.

Mourning is balanced with acceptance. While grief is natural, Sikhs are encouraged to find comfort in Gurbani (the words of the Guru) and in the knowledge that the soul has returned home.

When a Sikh person passes away, family and friends will often gather to recite prayers, including Kirtan Sohila — the bedtime prayer that is also recited at the time of death.

• The family should contact us as soon as possible so we can begin making arrangements.
• The body is treated with great respect at all times. It should not be left alone if possible.
• Religious items such as the five Ks (Panj Kakars) must remain with the deceased and must not be removed.

We will work with your family and Gurdwara to ensure everything is handled with the sensitivity and reverence the occasion deserves.

The body is washed and dressed by family members of the same sex, typically at the family home or at the Gurdwara. This is an act of love and devotion.

• The body is bathed and the hair washed, then dried and combed — Kesh (uncut hair) is one of the five Ks and must be preserved.
• The deceased is dressed in clean clothes, traditionally white or saffron, and the five Ks are ensured to be in place.
• Men may have their turban tied by a family member or by our team if required — we have trained staff experienced in this tradition.

We can assist with or arrange all aspects of preparation, including coordination with the Gurdwara.

The Sikh funeral ceremony is called the Antim Ardas (final prayer). It is a service of prayer, Kirtan (devotional hymns), and readings from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the eternal living Guru of the Sikhs.

The ceremony typically takes place at the Gurdwara and may include:

• Kirtan — the singing of hymns from Gurbani
• Ardas — the communal prayer
• Readings from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
• Katha — an explanation of Gurbani passages
• Langar — a communal meal shared by all who attend

We coordinate closely with your Granthi (priest) and Gurdwara committee to ensure the ceremony reflects your family's wishes and traditions.

Sikhs traditionally choose cremation (Antim Sanskar), which symbolises the return of the body to the five elements. Burial is generally not practised, though there are exceptions in certain circumstances.

• The cremation usually takes place as soon as possible after death, often within 24–48 hours if practicable.
• The eldest son traditionally lights the funeral pyre, though in a UK crematorium this is adapted; the family member will typically press the button or perform the equivalent symbolic act.
• Prayers and Ardas are recited at the crematorium before the cremation begins.

We work with local crematoriums who understand Sikh customs and can accommodate longer ceremonies and larger attendances where needed.

After the cremation, the ashes (known as Phool, meaning flowers) are collected and immersed in flowing water. This is called Asthi Visarjan.

• Many Sikh families choose to take the ashes to the River Sutlej or another sacred river in Punjab, India, though local rivers and the sea are also used in the UK.
• The Sehaj Path or Akhand Path — a full reading of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — is traditionally completed over the days following the funeral, culminating in the Bhog ceremony.
• The Bhog ceremony closes the period of mourning with Ardas, Kirtan, and Langar shared with the community.

We can advise on all aspects of post-cremation arrangements and the Bhog ceremony.

As the world's first Sikh funeral director, Gills Funeral Care was established to serve the Sikh community with authenticity and expertise. We understand that every family's traditions may differ, and we will always take time to listen and learn what matters most to you.

Our Sikh funeral services include:

• Preparation according to Sikh customs, including Kesh care and turban tying
• Coordination with your Gurdwara and Granthi
• Antim Ardas arrangements
• Kirtan arrangements with experienced ragis
• Cremation at local crematoriums familiar with Sikh customs
• Guidance on Phool collection and Asthi Visarjan
• Support through the Bhog ceremony and beyond

Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time of the day or night. We are here to support your family.