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Harrison fans await ashes

Fans are still waiting for Harrison's ashes by the Ganges

It had been reported that Harrison's widow, Olivia, and their 23-year-old son, Dhani, were to immerse his ashes into the holy river - but on Wednesday the family was said to be still in Los Angeles.

The former Beatle died last Friday after a long battle against cancer, prompting worldwide mourning and tributes.

Neither the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) nor the Varanasi administration or airport authorities have been able to say whether Harrison's family would be arriving to scatter the star's ashes.

Fans - including British and American visitors - have been waiting by the Ganges, some flying kites inscribed with messages.

Varshana Devi Dasi, ISKCON's spokeswoman in London, said: "They cremated the body hours after his death.

"That shows that they want it to be a private affair."

According to Hindu tradition, a cremation must take place within 24 hours of death, and other associated ceremonies should be completed within 13 days.

Harrison, 58, who died of lung cancer in Los Angeles, was cremated dressed in traditional Indian robes as two of his closest friends, both Hare Krishna devotees, chanted at his side.