Death in Banaras

Focusing on the sacred specialists of Banaras, this book delves into the rituals surrounding death and the practices of priests who guide mourners and pilgrims. It explores their organizational structures and their interpretations of death, emphasizing a shared concern for managing chaos and uncertainty. Dr. Parry examines contemporary Hindu concepts of the body, personhood, and the interplay of hierarchy, renunciation, and sacrifice, revealing how these ideas influence both the rituals of the dead and the lived experiences of the community.