Each community and caste has its own peculiar ceremonies connected
with death. Among the Hindus when a person approaches his last moments
the 64 junior members of the family assemble and pour water or milk
into his mouth. As soon as he breathes his last, the body is removed
from the cot to the central courtyard. The body is washed and marks
of bhasma (holy ashes) and sandal paste are applied on the forehead
and the joints. In certain parts of Kerala there is the custom of
sons and relatives putting rice mixed with flowers into the mouth
of the dead persons. This is called 'Vaykari'. At the cremation ground
it is customary that the eldest son sets fire to the dead body.
Among the Christians when a person approaches his last moments, he
is laid on the bed facing the east. As soon as the person dies, his
toes and thumbs are tied with a piece of cloth. A crucifix is placed
by the Catholics at the head of the corpse between two lighted candles.
The Parish priest offers prayers in the house of the deceased on behalf
of the departed spirit.
Among the Muslims when a person dies the pillow on which his body
rested is removed and his old dress is changed. The corpse (mayyath)
is washed in warm water and laid on the floor on the cot in mats covered
with clean clothes. Rose water is sprinkled over the place. The mullah
sits by the side of the corpse and recites the Quran. The body is
also washed a second time before it is carried to the mosque where
it is buried. When it is placed in the grave it is placed in such
a way as to be on its right facing Mecca
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