In the Hindu culture, the birth of a baby brings forth a wide range of traditions. Here are some of them...
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, godh bharai literally means to 'fill the lap' with abundance. Also known as "Khodo Bharavo," "Valaikappu" and "Seemantham" in other Indian languages.
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.
Naamkaran
Sanskrit: NAMAKARANA
11 days after birth
Traditionally, this is when the baby is officially named, based on their on rashi, or astrology (as per the lunar calendar).
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.
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."
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.
