Hindu sacred texts explain soul's return within 24 hours of death

The Garuda Purana, a revered Hindu sacred text, outlines specific beliefs about what transpires following a person's death. According to the scripture, the soul is guided to the realm of Yama, the god of death, by divine messengers known as yamaduts, or agents of death. In Yamloka, the soul undergoes an assessment of its earthly deeds and misdeeds accumulated during its lifetime.

Despite this journey to the afterlife, Hindu scriptural interpretation suggests the soul does not remain in Yamloka indefinitely. Instead, within 24 hours of death, the atma is believed to return to the family home—specifically to the place where the physical body was abandoned. This belief forms part of Hindu funeral and mourning practices observed across India.

The Garuda Purana's teachings on the soul's journey influence various post-death rituals and customs practiced in Hindu households. These include cremation ceremonies, prayers, and observances designed to guide the departed soul and honor the deceased during the critical period immediately following death. The text's doctrines continue to shape how many Indian families approach death, mourning, and the spiritual care of their loved ones.