Are Sikhs cremated or buried?

Cremation is the standard practice in Sikhism. The body is washed, dressed, and cremated, traditionally within a few days of death. The ashes are usually immersed in a river or other flowing water. Elaborate monuments and gravestones are discouraged, reflecting the belief that the soul, not the body, is what continues.

What is the Antam Sanskar?

Antam Sanskar means 'the final rite.' It refers to the Sikh funeral ceremony, which includes prayers and hymns (shabads) from the Guru Granth Sahib, the recitation of the Kirtan Sohila and Ardas prayers, and cremation. It emphasizes acceptance of God's will (Hukam) and avoids excessive mourning.

What happens after the cremation?

Families typically hold a series of prayers, often completing a reading of the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sahaj Paath or Akhand Paath) over the days following the death, concluding with a final prayer ceremony (Bhog) and the sharing of Karah Parshad and a langar meal at the gurdwara.

What happens at a Sikh funeral?

By Karl-Gustav Kallasmaa

Published September 2025 · Updated June 2026 · 7 min read

A Sikh funeral (Antam Sanskar) centers on cremation, hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, and acceptance of God's will. It is usually held within a few days, followed by a prayer ceremony.

The short answer

A Sikh funeral, the Antam Sanskar (“final rite”), reflects the Sikh belief in the soul's journey and acceptance of God's will (Hukam). Death is met with restraint rather than despair; the focus is on prayer, remembrance of God, and community support. The body is cremated, usually within a few days, and a series of prayers follows at the gurdwara.

Restraint over display

Sikhs generally avoid loud wailing and elaborate monuments or gravestones, since attachment to the physical body is not emphasized — the soul, not the body, is what continues. Customs vary among families and gurdwaras.

Preparing the body

The body is washed and dressed, including the articles of faith (the five Ks) for initiated Sikhs. Family and community gather, and hymns are sung. Cremation usually takes place within a few days of death.

The funeral ceremony and cremation

Prayers and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib are recited, including the Kirtan Sohila and the Ardas, in a mood of acceptance of God's will. The cremation follows, often with the Kirtan Sohila recited beforehand. Afterward the ashes are typically immersed in flowing water.

Prayers afterward

In the days that follow, families often arrange a complete reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, concluding with a Bhog ceremony, Ardas, and the sharing of Karah Parshad and langar (the free communal meal) at the gurdwara. This brings the community together to support the bereaved.

Planning a Sikh funeral

Contact the local gurdwara — granthis help lead prayers and arrange the ceremonies.
Plan for cremation, usually within a few days.
Discuss the schedule for the Guru Granth Sahib reading and the concluding Bhog.
Wear modest clothing and a head covering when attending the gurdwara.

Your rights on cost

The funeral home or crematory is bound by the FTC Funeral Rule: you are entitled to an itemized price list and may choose only the goods and services you want around the cremation.