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Samskaras: rites of passage

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Sacred ceremonies that mark the stages of life, from naming a child to marriage and the last rites.

Where: All of IndiaWhen: Through a person's lifetime

How it is performed

  1. Namakarana: naming the baby, usually on the 11th or 12th day.
  2. Annaprashana: the first rice or solid food, around six months.
  3. Vidyarambha: the beginning of learning, often writing the first letters in rice on Vijayadashami or Vasant Panchami.
  4. Upanayana: the sacred-thread ceremony marking the start of formal study.
  5. Vivaha: marriage, sealed by the Saptapadi, seven steps around the sacred fire with seven vows.
  6. Antyeshti: the last rites.

Significance

Traditional texts list sixteen samskaras. They give spiritual meaning to life's milestones and bind families and communities together. Each community has its own customs.

Sources