Sikhism
Dedicated to Waheguru — the Timeless One; the Sikh Gurus
Antim Ardas is the final congregational prayer and Shabad Kirtan offered during the last rites of a Sikh — a solemn, deeply moving ceremony that commends the departed soul to Waheguru and holds the grieving family in the embrace of the sangat. It is part of Antam Sanskaar, the Sikh approach to death as a return to the Divine, and it brings together scripture, kirtan, and collective prayer in a way that is both an act of devotion and an act of community care.
Sikhism views death not as a tragedy but as the soul's reunion with Waheguru — a homecoming. The Antim Ardas gives form to this belief: it is a prayer of acceptance, of gratitude for the life lived, and of trust in the Guru's will (Bhaana). For the family, it is also a moment of being held — surrounded by the sangat, sustained by kirtan, and reminded that neither the departed soul nor they themselves walk this path alone.
The Ardas is led by a granthi or a knowledgeable Sikh from the sangat. Shabad Kirtan before and after is performed by ragis or a kirtan jatha. The family and all gathered stand with folded hands during the Ardas itself.
The sangat stands with folded hands during Ardas, silently joining in the prayer, saying "Waheguru" at the appropriate responses. During Shabad Kirtan portions, the sangat may softly sing along or sit in contemplative listening.
Antim Ardas is a sacred funeral ceremony, not a general kirtan or performance. It is characterised by deep solemnity, congregational prayer, and the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib. It should be approached and arranged with full understanding of its sacred context.
When the Ardas begins, everyone stands with folded hands, facing Guru Granth Sahib, and joins in with “Waheguru” at the responses.
For an antim ardas or prayer meeting, ask the artists for quiet, consoling shabads or bhajans. Families often also choose a few the departed person loved.
At an antim ardas or prayer meeting, guests usually wear white or light, simple clothes. It is a time for quiet presence, not conversation.
A gentle guide for families arranging kirtan at an antim ardas or prayer meeting.
Open the checklistPronounced un-tim ur-daas
Also called Final Ardas, Sikh Last Rites Kirtan, Antam Sanskaar Kirtan, Funeral Shabad Kirtan, Bhog Ceremony
Also spelled Antim Ardaas, Antam Ardas, Antim Ardas Ceremony
Antim Ardas is the final congregational prayer offered during Sikh last rites. It is part of Antam Sanskaar — the Sikh approach to death as the soul's return to Waheguru. The ceremony includes Shabad Kirtan, scriptural reading, and the Ardas prayer, held in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib.
It is performed at the time of cremation, or as part of the Bhog ceremony following the completion of the Akhand Path or Sehaj Path read in the days after passing. The timing is determined by the family in consultation with the granthi or local gurdwara.
The Ardas is led by a granthi or a knowledgeable member of the sangat. Shabad Kirtan before and after is performed by ragis or a kirtan jatha. The entire sangat participates by standing with folded hands.
Yes. Shabad Kirtan is a meaningful and comforting part of the ceremony — Gurbani sung in raag can bring peace to the family and create an atmosphere of deep spiritual solace. Artists who specialise in Shabad Kirtan and understand the context of last rites can be arranged through Book Kirtan.
Antim Ardas is a Sikh ceremony and follows Sikh scriptural and ritual protocol. However, many non-Sikh family members and friends attend to pay their respects. All are welcome to sit with the sangat and be present.
When reaching out to Book Kirtan for an Antim Ardas, please share the date, location, and nature of the ceremony (Bhog, cremation ceremony, or home Path completion). We will connect you with experienced ragis who understand the sacred context of this occasion.
Tell us the occasion, the date and the city. We’ll suggest the right artist and reply on WhatsApp within a day.
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