Nurturing the Departed: Vital Practices After Demise
When the fateful moment of death arrives, it does not descend upon us like a sudden curtain fall, but rather as a gradual receding of life energy. Surprisingly, even after the physical body ceases to function, subtle signs of life continue to linger for up to 11 to 14 days. Fingernails grow, hair lengthens—death unveils its enigmatic secrets slowly and steadily. In the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture, this profound understanding has given rise to a series of rituals and practices performed for up to 14 days after the passing of a loved one. Regrettably, with the passage of time, the true essence and significance of these rituals have faded away, reduced to mere formalities performed without a deeper understanding.