Sri Lankan Hearse - on way to a cremation
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Sri Lankan Hearse - on way to a cremation
Sri Lankan Hearse - on way to a cremation. Date: circa 1910s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11562930
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Ceylon Cremated Cremation Hearse Important Lanka Lankan Mourners
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the solemn procession of a Sri Lankan hearse on its way to a cremation ceremony in the early 1910s. The image offers a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions and historical practices of Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon. The ornate hearse, drawn by a team of strong oxen, is decorated with intricate floral arrangements, symbolizing the importance and respect given to the deceased. The mourners, dressed in traditional attire and wearing white, follow the hearse, their faces etched with sorrow and reverence. Cremation is an essential aspect of Sri Lankan funerals, reflecting the country's ancient Buddhist beliefs. The cremation ground, often located near temples or monasteries, is a sacred place where the deceased's soul is believed to attain peace and liberation. This photograph, taken during the British colonial era, provides a fascinating insight into the intersection of Sri Lanka's diverse cultural influences. The traditional funeral procession is juxtaposed against the backdrop of the colonial-era infrastructure, with the oxen-drawn hearse passing by a telegraph pole and a British-style road sign. Despite the passage of time, the significance of this ancient practice continues to resonate with the Sri Lankan people, who carry on the tradition with deep reverence and respect. This poignant image serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of tradition and the importance of honoring the deceased in the face of loss.
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