A local funeral parlour’s controversial “after tears” celebration, held at a cemetery, has sparked widespread shock and outrage across social media platforms. The event, which featured an array of alcoholic beverages, has left many questioning the line between a respectful farewell and a tasteless spectacle.
The “After Tears” Tradition
In South Africa, the “after tears” is a well-known tradition where family and friends gather after a funeral to celebrate the life of the deceased. This gathering is typically marked by food, drinks, and memories shared in a less formal setting. However, a recent service organized by a high-profile funeral parlour has ignited a fierce debate on what is appropriate when commemorating the dead.
#### Funeral Parlour’s Unconventional Service Goes Viral
The funeral parlour, known for its luxury services and celebrity endorsements, raised eyebrows when images from one of their recent services began circulating on social media. The photos showcased a lavish setup at the cemetery, complete with a table laden with high-end alcoholic beverages such as Ice Tropez and Chateau Del Rei. Attendants, dressed impeccably, were seen serving these drinks to attendees, adding an air of exclusivity to the occasion.
The parlour, which prides itself on offering VIP services, also flaunted other luxurious elements of the funeral, including a G-Wagon, a horse-drawn carriage, and elaborate grave decorations that seemed more suited to a red-carpet event than a final farewell.https://x.com/_BlackZA/status/1831181613792633066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1831181613792633066%7Ctwgr%5E277b1f8674ecfc61c1b921c2e1c4eb10cafe5445%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesouthafrican.com%2Flifestyle%2Fsouth-africa-funeral-parlour-services-after-tears-viral-latest%2F
#### Social Media Reacts: Disrespect or Dignity?
The extravagant nature of the “after tears” celebration quickly became a hot topic on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, where many users expressed their dismay.
One user, @targunstiles, lamented the apparent loss of respect for the deceased, stating, “We no longer have respect for the dead.” Another user, @_BlackZA, pointed out the inappropriateness of the setting, saying, “It’s not about the family. It’s about respecting the cemetery.”
The sentiment that money had taken precedence over dignity was echoed by @NathiSibiya8, who criticized the focus on lavishness rather than solemnity. On the other hand, some users, like @JohannesNdlang1, suggested that the funeral parlour was simply capitalizing on a business opportunity, albeit in a controversial manner.
Despite the backlash, a few defended the parlour’s approach, with @ChiccoDhladhla remarking, “There is demand, and they are there to fulfill that.”
#### Has the Funeral Parlour Crossed a Line?
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the commercialization of funerals and the potential for disrespect when businesses push the boundaries of traditional practices. While some see the funeral parlour’s services as a modern twist on an age-old tradition, others view it as a gross misstep that undermines the sanctity of the final resting place.
As the debate continues, many are left wondering if this is a sign of changing times or a step too far in the pursuit of profit.
What do you think? Did the funeral parlour take their “after tears” celebration too far? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or email us at info@thesouthafrican.com. Don’t forget to follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.