Why Are Hijra Funerals Conducted at Night? Why Are They Beaten with Shoes After Death?
We'll learn about some startling customs surrounding their burials today. Ever wonder how Hijras are cremated after they pass away? Why do they hold their funerals at night? We can tell you if you don't know.
Funerals Are Conducted Secretly
Funerals for the Hijra are held in complete privacy. They are thus typically conducted at night. A common person who attends their burial is said to have the potential to be reincarnated as a Hijra in their subsequent life.
Instead of being carried on four shoulders as is customary, their remains are transported differently to the cremation site. Detachment from this world is symbolized by the white fabric wrapped around the torso. Before the cremation, holy river water is put into their mouth.
Why Are They Beaten with Shoes?
It is stated that Hijras are aware of their imminent demise. They refrain from eating, drinking, and going outside during this period. They spend all of their time in prayer, pleading with god to save them from being forced to migrate in the next world.
Their bodies are battered with shoes before their last voyage. They can be reincarnated as either a boy or a female in their future life since this act is said to atone for whatever sins they may have done during their lifetime.