Death rituals in Burma

In Burma, people like keeping relation with family members. They always try to help people when they are in real need. The relatives and friends are always informed when a person is seriously ill. When they get the information, the friend or relative always try to visit the sick person. It is advisable to take some fresh fruits or canned cereals at such times. You can also take something according to the patient’s choice.

There are some persons who are really reluctant to be admitted into hospitals. But with the changing situation i.e. with the improvements in medical science their attitude becomes changed. In case a person dies at home, the body is then bathed. He then dressed in the best cloth of that person. A monk will be there to do the chanting and prayers. After three or five days of the death the funeral will usually take place. In the meanwhile, a wake will be held. During this wake period, members of the dead person’s family keep watch during the nights. The guests who come to visit the dead person’s home are served tea and black melon seeds. In case the person dies in a hospital or anywhere else, the remains of the dead body placed in a morgue. In that case also the wake will be held at the home of the deceased.

In Myanmar, Burial is still common. But in most of the cases cremation is performed. The recitation is also performed in some cases. The monks are part and parcel of a funeral as their recitation take a very important part. It is necessary to send at least telegram or a letter if informed about a relative’s death. Try to do this otherwise they can think it as an insult to them. Donations can also be given if the family is financially unstable. Try to avoid wearing bright dresses in a dead man’s family.