The life of hijras is different in every sense compared to ordinary people. They are individuals who are neither male nor female, known as the third gender.
They pray for us. In Hinduism, it is believed that the prayers of hijras carry immense power. However, very little information is available about their lives.
Today, we will explore shocking rituals associated with their funerals that will leave you astonished. Have you ever wondered how the funerals of hijras are conducted after their death? Why are their dead bodies beaten with shoes, and why are the rituals performed at night? If you don't know, let us explain.
Funerals Are Conducted Secretly
In reality, after the death of a hijra, their funerals are conducted secretly so that no one can witness them. Therefore, most of the time, their funeral processions take place at night. It is believed that if a common person sees the funeral of a hijra, the deceased would be reborn as a hijra. It is also said that in their funeral procession, the body is not carried on shoulders but kept upright and taken to the cremation ground.
Their body is wrapped in white cloth, symbolizing that the deceased no longer has any connection with this body or the world. Additionally, a ritual involves pouring holy river water into their mouth, after which the body is buried. It is believed that if a common person sees the burial process, hijras might even harm them.
They Consider Themselves Cursed, Hence the Beating with Shoes!
Hijras are said to have a premonition of their death. In such circumstances, they give up food and drink and stop stepping out of their homes. During this time, they immerse themselves in devotion to God, praying, "Oh Lord, we are hijras in this life, but please do not make us hijras in the next."
Hijras consider their lives so cursed that before the funeral, they beat the deceased hijra's body with shoes. They also curse them loudly. There is a reason for this. Hijras believe that if the deceased hijra committed any wrongdoing in their life, this punishment will compensate for it, and they will be reborn as a male or female in the next life.
It is noteworthy that when a hijra dies, the entire community observes a week-long fast and prays for the peace of the departed soul.