Garud Puran: Why Cotton is Placed in Nose and Ears After Death, Know the Hidden Secret

In Hinduism, from birth to death and subsequent rituals, there are many strict rules, traditions, and customs. Behind all these rituals, there is always some deep scientific, philosophical, or spiritual reason. Immediately after a person's death, you must have seen a tradition where cotton or a piece of shroud cloth is placed in the nose, ears, and other open orifices of the deceased's body.

Often people wonder why this is done to a dead body before the final rites. Is it merely a ritual, or are there religious and scientific reasons behind it? The holy Hindu scripture 'Garud Puran' and Ayurveda explain the secrets behind this tradition in great detail. Let's understand why cotton is placed in the nose and ears after death.

The Rule of Prana Vayu and Energy Conservation

According to Garud Puran, when a person dies, the life force departs the body for a subtle journey. The scriptures state that there are nine main apertures in the body—two eyes, two ears, two nostrils, one mouth, and two lower orifices. It is believed that at the time of death and immediately after, the remaining subtle life force and energy try to escape through these open organs. To prevent this unnecessary leakage of energy and maintain the sanctity of the body, organs like the nose and ears are plugged with cotton.

Scientific and Health-Related Reasons

Along with religious beliefs, there is a major scientific and practical reason behind this practice. According to Ayurveda and medical science, natural decomposition begins within hours of death, and gases start building up inside the body. Furthermore, relaxation of internal tissues can sometimes cause bodily fluids to escape through the nose or ears.

Additionally, before the funeral procession begins and during the gathering of relatives, to prevent any discomfort or the spread of infection, these organs are covered with cotton to maintain hygiene and dignity.

Protection from Negative Energy

According to folk traditions and ancient texts, a dead body remains in a highly sensitive state until its final cremation. It is believed that plugging the open orifices prevents any negative subtle forces or insects from affecting the body, thereby preserving the sanctity and peace of the departed soul.