Uttara Kriya Karma is a collection of rituals to be carried out to mark the end of life and facilitate the transition of recently deceased souls from the physical to a metaphysical world. These rituals help the soul attain salvation while helping the loved ones cope with the loss of a family member or a friend.

Traditional Uttara Kriya Karma rituals can extend for a duration of fourteen days, starting with funeral preparation to Vaikunta Samaradhane. The rituals are performed by one or more purohits, and the ceremony may vary depending on different factors. In the event of a death, the purohit will conduct Uttara Kriya Karma by performing Apara Kriya Samskara, Prayaschitta homa and other poojas to prepare the body for cremation. It is followed by the collection of ashes during the next two days, and a few daily rituals at the venue of cremation. The collected ashes, known as “Asthi” is then dispersed in a water body by offering prayers. Under the guidance of the purohit, the bereaved family members make offerings of food to the departed soul in the form of Pinda for the next few days as the soul is said to have begun its journey to the gates of Yamaloka – abode of the God of Death. The purohit will perform Yama homa and Shraddha ceremonies to ensure peace and tranquility to the soul.

On the thirteenth and the fourteenth day, Masika Shraddha and Vaikunta Samaradhane are performed, and a feast is organized for everyone in attendance.