Vantage | Will you attend your own funeral? Here's why some are doing it

In a departure from the usual news stories, we invite you to envision a scene that is both celebratory and unconventional. Picture a gathering filled with your family and friends, surrounded by music, good food and heartfelt tributes. However, there’s a twist – this is not a joyous occasion, but rather a funeral. Stay with us as we delve into the concept of living funerals, a radical choice that challenges societal norms surrounding death and offers a unique perspective on celebrating life.

Concept of living funerals Living funerals, also known as pre-funerals, might initially sound morbid and bizarre. However, as we explore this concept, it becomes apparent that it is a bold and, in some cases, a transformative choice. The individual bidding goodbye gets to exercise creative control over their farewell, celebrating not just death but, more importantly, their life while still alive. Living funerals provide individuals, particularly those facing terminal illnesses like cancer or dementia, with an opportunity to say goodbye on their terms. This unconventional practice is not entirely new and has gained popularity in places like Japan, where living funerals, known as “seizenso”, became a cultural norm in the late 1900s. In Japan, these events help alleviate the emotional and financial burden on family members, making the grieving process more manageable. Global perspective on living funerals South Korea has also embraced living funerals, albeit with a slightly different approach. Participants, both young and old, wear burial shrouds, lie down in coffins and experience a few minutes of darkness that can feel like an eternity. This unique practice aims to help individuals face their mortality, prepare for the end, and even dispel suicidal impulses. Living funerals have become so normalised in South Korea that businesses treat them as motivational programmes, sponsoring employee participation. Experts and individuals who have undergone their own living funerals attest to the uplifting nature of the experience. It allows for a unique opportunity to relax, reflect and find meaning in life. In a society where death is often considered a taboo subject, living funerals provide a platform to confront the certainty of life’s end, fostering a sense of closure and peace. Living funerals challenge societal norms surrounding death and encourage a more open conversation about mortality. While the idea may seem extreme, it serves as a powerful tool for individuals to confront their own mortality, celebrate their lives, and ensure that nothing is left unsaid. As we consider the merits of living funerals, it becomes evident that this radical choice offers a unique perspective on the inevitable, prompting us to reflect on the importance of embracing life in the face of death. As we conclude this thought-provoking journey into the realm of living funerals, we encourage you to share your thoughts on this unconventional practice. Is it a radical choice worth considering, or does it remain too outside the bounds of societal norms? The conversation is open and your opinions matter. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.