We live abroad. Can we keep the ashes at home, or immerse them in a local river or sea?

you can immerse them locally where permitted, or keep them respectfully for a while and take them to India later.

Many families abroad do one of three things: immerse in the sea or a river locally (several countries and some Hindu temples have designated spots or boat services), carry the ashes to India on the next trip, or divide them — a little immersed locally, the rest taken to the Gaṅgā. All three are accepted by priests; water is sacred everywhere when approached with prayer.

Keeping ashes indefinitely at home is not the Hindu custom, because immersion symbolises letting go and the soul's onward journey. But keeping them for some months until you can travel is fine. Store the urn in a clean, quiet place — many keep it outside the pūjā room — and light a lamp nearby on the śrāddha days if you wish.

Check local rules on scattering ashes, and keep the cremation certificate for airline and customs checks. If your situation is specific, Ask Chiluka.

Source: common practice among families abroad

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