Death ceremony in santhal
Death ceremony in santhal The Santhal community has a unique and spiritual death ceremony that reflects their beliefs in the afterlife, ancestors, and rebirth . There are different types of death rituals in Santhal society based on the cause of death and social status of the deceased. 1. Sakrat Milan (Natural Death Ritual) Performed when a person dies naturally (due to old age or illness). The body is buried , not cremated. The Naeke (priest) and Manjhi (village head) perform the last rites. Family members mourn and offer Handia (rice beer) to the ancestors. After a few days, a feast is organized for the villagers. Significance : Honors the deceased and ensures their peaceful transition to the afterlife. 2. Raska Punthi (Sudden or Unnatural Death Ritual) Performed when someone dies due to an accident, murder, suicide, or unnatural causes . The body is buried outside the village boundary . A separate ritual is conducted because it is believed that the soul may bec...