Funerals are traditionally solemn occasions, with the deceased usually laid to rest in a coffin. However, a bizarre trend has emerged in which families position their loved ones in lifelike postures during burial ceremonies.
In one unusual case, a man was seated on a chair at his own funeral, appearing as though he was calmly watching the proceedings. Family members arranged his body in the sitting position with the help of special embalming techniques that allow corpses to be preserved and posed.
This practice, which has been spotted in parts of Africa and beyond, has divided opinion. Supporters say it gives family and friends the feeling that their loved one is still present among them. Critics, however, argue that it goes against cultural norms, where the body is expected to remain in a coffin until burial.
While shocking to many, such funerals are becoming increasingly common, with bodies sometimes positioned standing, seated, or even dressed in favorite clothes to reflect the person’s lifestyle.
The seated funeral sparked heated reactions online, with some calling it a creative farewell, while others found it disturbing and disrespectful to tradition.
