When a Sikh meets his death, it is called as Akal Chalana. Before cremation, the cadaver is bathed thoroughly. It is then donned with Kachahara (loin underwear). It is then adorned with Kara (ring for the wrist), Kripana (dagger), Kangha (comb) and Dastar (turban) and wrapped in a clean cloth. Ultimately the body is put on a wooden board or vehicle and taken to the crematorium. Before reaching the crematorium, the body is taken to a Guruduara for Ardas (donations). In the crematorium, the son or any close relative of the dead person ignites the pyre. Singing of devotional songs continues during the cremation.

Ashes are collected usually on the third or fourth day after cremation, and immersed in rivers like Ganges etc. After the cremation, there is a provision of non-stop, uninterrupted recitation of Guru Granth Sahib at the home of the deceased. At the end of it, shlokas (stanzas) of Ninth Patshah Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib are recited. Then Sabad is sung in Raag Ramakali. Anand Sahib is recited and donations (Ardas) are made. Thereafter, Karah Prasad and Langar is cooked.

Many times, on such occasions, a small ritual of Dastar Bandi (donning of turban) is also performed. In this ritual, the eldest member of the family is appointed as the head of the family. Responsibility of the family and property then comes to rest upon him. Children and other members of the family since then obey his words. It is the responsibility of the new head of the family to look after them.