Hindu Rituals for Pregnancy, Birth and Newborn Baby
In the Hindu culture, the birth of a baby brings forth a wide range of traditions, each steeped in spiritual significance and cultural heritage. Here's a glimpse into these beautiful rituals:
Godh Bharai/Sanskrit: SIMANTONAYANA
7 months pregnant
Prior to the baby's birth, a prayer is recited in honor of fulfilling the parental duty. In Hindi, god Bharai literally means to 'fill the lap' with abundance. Also known as "Khodo Bharavo," "Valaikappu" and "Seemantham" in other Indian languages. Just as a "baby shower" celebrates the impending arrival of a baby in western cultures, the Hindu version involves a small religious ritual and a variety of games and treats to bless the mom-to-be. This ritual involves prayers, blessings, and festive gatherings to honor the expectant mother. It's a time to shower her with love, gifts, and well wishes.
Chatti/Sanskrit: JATAKARMA
6 days after birth
When the baby is brought home from the hospital, a puja is performed in honor the baby's future, honoring a story of Vidhaata, the Goddess of Destiny. The father whispers sacred mantras into the baby's ears, and a touch of honey or ghee to the lips symbolizes a sweet and prosperous life.
Naamkaran/Sanskrit: NAMAKARANA
11 days after birth
Traditionally, this is when the baby is officially named, based on their rashi, or astrology (as per the lunar calendar). The name is then whispered into the baby's ear to imprint it on their soul.
Annaprashan/Sanskrit: ANNAPRASHANA
6 months after birth
This ceremony is to celebrate the baby's first solid meal -- traditionally, sweet rice. Also known as "choroonu" and "mukhe bhaat". It's a joyous occasion with family and friends gathered to witness this milestone.
Black Beaded Jewelry
During the first year
Meant to ward off the "evil eye," babies can be seen wearing black beaded bracelets or anklets, or even a black dhaga (holy string), a symbol of protection and good luck.
Mundan/Sanskrit: CHUDAKARANA
in an odd year of age
This is the baby's first haircut. It is believed that hairs from birth contain all the impurities of previous lives, and shaving them allows one to start anew.
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Naming Babies Based on their Rashi
Rashi: the sanskrit word for "zodiac sign" or moonsign in Vedic astrology
What’s Your Rashi?
It’s determine by the moon’s location at the date and time of your birth. Other factors also play a role, including: Nakshatra - constellations that the moon passes through during its monthly cycle Position of other planets
Two Main Reasons to name your baby based on Rashi:
Auspiciousness:
It's believed that a name starting with a letter corresponding to the baby's Rashi brings good luck and fortune
Alignment:
The Rashi is thought to influence the child's personality and tendencies, and helps bring out the positive traits of that Rashi.
The Naming Ceremony: Namkaran
What?
A traditional Hindu ritual where a priest might use the Rashi, along with other astrological factors, to recommend a first letter for the baby's name. Parents may choose a name they like that starts with that letter.
When?
Although the suggested timings vary, some consider the 11th or 12th day after birth to be ideal.
How?
Priests officiate the ceremony, but if doing it on your own, light a diya, chant mantras, whisper the chosen name in the baby’s right ear 4 times, and distribute prasad. Number 4 is auspicious in Hinduism and whispering is seen as a way to speak directly to the child's spirit with love.
Each Rashi has a set of corresponding letters that are considered auspicious for naming a child born under that sign. It's believed that a name starting with a letter corresponding to the baby's rashi can bring good fortune and align with their personality traits. Here's a breakdown of the 12 Rashis and their associated letters for choosing a name starting with that letter:
By understanding and embracing these rich traditions, Hindu families celebrate the arrival of a new life with love, joy, and spiritual significance.
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Modi Toys is a children's brand of toys and books inspired by ancient Hindu culture. We exist to spread joy and to spark curiosity in the next generation through our innovative soft plush toys, illustrated children's books and free learning resources. Our weekly Theology Thursday series covers a wide range of topics rooted in Hinduism to help us better understand the origins of traditions, the symbolic meaning of rituals, and the stories behind Hindu holidays and festivals. The more we can understand "the why" behind this 4,000 year ancient religion, and make sense of it in this modern age, the greater we can appreciate and preserve our rich Hindu culture. While we take great care in thoroughly researching the information presented, we may occasionally get some things wrong. We encourage a healthy and open dialogue so we can learn together. Please leave a comment below or email us directly at support@moditoys.com to address any concerns.
