The Garuda Purana, an important text in Hinduism, outlines the inevitability of death for all beings, including humans, animals, and celestial entities. It portrays the cycle of birth and death and how lives are shaped by karmic actions. The Purana highlights the significance of the soul's journey and its ultimate goal of attaining liberation or 'moksha'. This context sets the foundation for various rituals and practices surrounding death, reflecting the belief in an ongoing cycle governed by one's actions and spiritual state.

In its discourse on post-mortem procedures, the Garuda Purana specifies several reasons why a corpse should not be left alone. Firstly, it introduces the concept of security - leaving the body unattended may lead to it being harmed by insects or scavengers, which is why a person is usually present to watch over the remains. Secondly, there is an emphasis on protecting the deceased's spirit from negative energies or forces, especially during the night, when it's believed that such entities are more active. This belief reflects deeper cultural concerns about respecting the dead and safeguarding the spiritual integrity of the deceased.

Lastly, the Garuda Purana touches on the social aspects of death rituals, indicating that immediate cremation is not always possible due to various circumstances, such as the need for a relative to arrive. This flexibility in timing ensures that funeral rites are conducted respectfully, adhering to both spiritual and familial obligations. Consequently, these practices exemplify the intersection of Hindu beliefs, rituals, and the social fabric surrounding the concept of death and dying in Indian culture.