Simplifying Life Insurance in India
What are the Dos’ and Don’ts of Funeral Donation and Gifts?
source: livemint
India is a multicultural nation where different religions follow different funeral rites. However, staying by the family members and consoling them during this time is constant everywhere.
Even though your presence matters the most over everything else, bringing a consolation gift is prevalent in Indian culture. It is important not to bring anything that might hurt cultural beliefs and sentiments. Read along to learn more on the dos’ and don’ts of funeral donation and gifts to avoid doing so.
Dos’ of Donating and Gifting in Honour of Your Loved One
Show Sympathy Through Gifts
If you know the deceased and have come as a friend, colleague etc., bring funeral gifts like fruits, flowers and incense sticks. It is common in any Indian household during funerals. It is symbolic of sending away the soul of the deceased in peace.
The significant notion, in this case, is showing the close members of the loved one enough sympathy and staying by their side in this crucial time. Honouring the deceased and consoling the family members is the main aspect here.
Donate As Per Your Budget
Donating alms and money at funerals has been a part of India's culture from time immemorial. However, it is necessary to do so within limits such that it reflects humbleness and captures a sympathetic nature. It has been an act of serving tribute to the dead and creating good karma for the afterlife of the deceased person.Donate Old Belongings of Your Loved One
It is normal for loved ones to keep the deceased person's belongings as memory tokens. However, giving these away to charity can also be considered an act of remembering. You can distribute items not often used, like clothes, furniture, tools, electronics, etc., among people who need them.Don’ts of Funeral Donations and Gifts
Don’t Bring Expensive Gifts
The notion of gifting at a funeral comes from expressing sympathy rather than bringing sympathy gifts. On the contrary, expensive gifts usually stand as a symbol of celebration. Hence don’t spend too much money on choosing a sympathy gift.
Staying by the bereaved family during this hard time and consoling them is vital. Show your love, respect and sympathy for the deceased through funeral donations and gifts.
Don’t Bring Unsuitable Gifts
Avoid bringing gifts like tissue papers, ominous colours etc., as these often aren't recognised as sympathetic gifts. Other things like jewellery, gorgeous apparel, etc., must also be avoided as those are for joyous occasions. However, if any of the family members or the deceased person had made a wish for a specific thing, then it would be respectful to stick to that.Don’t Bring Alcohol
Many Indian cultures prohibit bringing or drinking alcohol at funerals. It is better to avoid giving anything alcohol related as a sympathetic gift. However, since it also depends on the cultural notion, it is better to ensure beforehand whether you can or cannot bring alcohol to the funeral.
These were some of the dos' and don'ts of funeral donations and gifts to remember while picking any sympathy gift. You can also bring anything that might have been a favourite of the deceased or something that the family wished for eagerly. Apart from these, you can also look for gifts like comforting sympathy cards to help them with grieving.
FAQs About Dos’ and Don’ts of Funeral Donations and Gifts
Can I bring sweets to a funeral?
Can I give gift vouchers instead of money for funerals?
Can I bring clothes for the deceased at a funeral?
What should I consider before buying a sympathy gift?
To whom should I hand the sympathy gifts?
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