Significance of Funeral ground

The concept of funeral ground is explored in both Purana and Kavya texts. In Purana, it refers to areas designated for burials, stressing the association of funeral aspects with the actions of Chandala boys, as well as locations for cremation. In Kavya, the funeral ground signifies the area surrounding a temple, characterized by remnants of death and spectral forms, which contribute to the macabre theme of the narrative. The interpretations underscore the interplay between death and cultural practices.

Synonyms: Cemetery, Graveyard, Burial site, Resting place

In Dutch: Begraafplaats; In Finnish: Hautausmaa; In Spanish: Cementerio

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Funeral ground'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the funeral ground signifies burial areas linked to Chandala boys, the periphery around temples bearing spectral remnants, and the site designated for cremation or burial, reflecting mortality and ritualistic significance.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) A place associated with death, used metaphorically to describe the loathsome state of Gadhi.[1] (2) The site where funerals are conducted, fraught with symbols of death and loss.[2] (3) The areas designated for burials, where Gadhi associates funereal aspects with the actions of the Chandala boys.[3] (4) The location where the deceased is taken for cremation or burial.[4]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) Funeral ground is where the wreaths adorned the king, highlighting his transformation.[5] (2) Funeral ground is honored by royal dames who came from the town in litters or chariots, with aged followers ringed around the area.[6]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The area surrounding the temple, filled with remnants of death and spectral forms, enhancing the play's macabre theme.[7]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

The concept of Funeral ground in local and regional sources

History Books

The term "Funeral ground" relates to the concept of familial obligations, specifically representing the location tied to a husband's deceased parents, which the wife acknowledges while discussing these responsibilities.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) The place associated with the husband's deceased parents, which the wife refers to when discussing her husband's familial obligations.[8]

Plural form: Funeral grounds.