Tower of Silence

The Tower of Silence is a traditional Zoroastrian funeral practice where the deceased are placed atop an open-air structure called a tower, or dakhma. This method allows natural elements and scavengers like vultures to dispose of the bodies, aligning with religious beliefs that emphasize keeping the earth and fire pure by avoiding contamination from dead bodies. The process is environmentally friendly and culturally significant, reflecting a respect for nature and the natural cycle of life and death. These towers are usually located in remote areas to minimize health risks and respect community norms.