Which of the following is a common practice for families unable to afford cremation in Hindu culture?

In Hindu culture, when families face financial constraints that prevent them from affording cremation, a common practice is to float the body down the Ganges River. This act is deeply rooted in the spiritual beliefs associated with the Ganges, which is considered a sacred river in Hinduism. The river is believed to have purifying properties, and floating the body allows the deceased to be released into a realm of spiritual advancement and purification, consistent with Hindu beliefs about the afterlife and reincarnation.

This practice also provides a way for families to honor their loved ones within the context of their cultural and religious traditions, even when financial resources are limited. The Ganges serves as a crucial site for many Hindu rituals, and this method of handling the body aligns with the values surrounding death and the journey of the soul.

Other options, while potentially relevant in different cultural or religious contexts, do not represent the prevalent practices associated with Hinduism and financial limitations in cremation.