Antam Sanskar (Sikh funeral rite)

Antam Sanskar — the "final rite" — is the Sikh funeral. Its shape is set by Sikh Rehat Maryada, the Sikh code of conduct, and is intentionally simple: the body returns to its elements, and the soul (atma) returns to Waheguru (God). For someone who has lived in remembrance of God, death is a homecoming.

Cremation is the standard practice. Sikh Rehat Maryada discourages caste distinctions, ostentation, prolonged dramatic mourning, and memorialisation at the cremation site. The funeral has three parts in UK practice: a service at the gurdwara, in the home, or in a funeral chapel; the cremation itself, which includes Kirtan Sohila and Ardas at the point of committal; and an Akhand Path or Sehaj Path — a complete reading of the Guru Granth Sahib — completed in the days that follow, ending with a Bhog ceremony.

For an Amritdhari (initiated Khalsa) Sikh, the body is dressed in clean clothes that include the Five Ks; for a sahajdhari (non-initiated) Sikh, in clean and modest clothes, often with a turban or chunni.

→ Sikh funeral traditions in the UK · Akhand Path · Five Ks · Faith-specific funerals

Last verified: 2 May 2026 against the Sikh Council UK and Network of Sikh Organisations published guidance.