Some of the most interesting experiences when traveling are often the most shocking. They cause you to rethink things. Ceremonies like this are both sad and beautiful.
It makes you confront death, which often gives you the courage to get up and confront life with a little extra passion and drive!
Very good observation - often in Western culture, these things happen behind closed doors and I'm sure most people prefer it that way (in the West), but I agree with you it's all quite visceral and likely serves as a potent reminder that the clock is ticking.