Hindu funeral rites, known as Antyesti, are an important part of Hindu culture, focusing on honoring the deceased and ensuring a smooth transition to the afterlife. The process typically begins with the body being bathed and dressed in simple clothes, often white, symbolizing purity. Family members gather to perform rituals, including chanting sacred verses and offering prayers. The body is then cremated, usually on a funeral pyre, as fire is considered a purifying element. After cremation, the ashes are collected and immersed in a sacred river, such as the Ganges, to facilitate the soul's journey to the next life.