Namakaran is a traditional Hindu ceremony of naming the baby; naming process creates a bond between the child and the rest of the family, and is a highly auspicious occasion for child, parents, family and relatives. Namakaran or baby naming ceremony is usually performed on the 12th day after birth; this tradition varies from region to region and custom to custom.
In some custom it is believed that a proper name for the child is necessary as the child name determines the faith of the child, it is also a social and legal necessity and is an important duty of parents to select the best name for their child.
The mother of the child who has brought the child into the world is specially honored, greeted and blessed by relatives and friends. Friends and relatives bless both child and parents and offers them gifts. The child is blessed to grow into a great and honorable person.
Namakaran ceremony is either performed at home or in some temple. The priest offers puja to all gods and to agni, the elements, and to the spirits of forefathers entreating them to bless and protect the child. Horoscope of child if is already written and available is presented to god and is placed in front of god idol requesting them to bless the child.
As per the regional tradition the child is placed for blessing on the lap of either the father or his maternal uncle's. Chosen name of the child is whispered in the right ear of baby using a betel leaf or its silver imprint, or using leaves of kusa grass to direct the words into baby’s ear
After the naming ritual is completed, friends and relatives bless the child and touch some honey or sugar to baby’s lips.
Namakaran ceremony helps parents to understand their responsibility of bringing up the child and developing the child into a worthy human being and for everyone else who are present in the ceremony it’s a marvelous experience for them of understanding the dignity and value of human life
Naming ceremony if not done on the 12th day; can be performed either on 101 day or on child’s first birthday. Good food is made and is served to friends and family to celebrate the holy and auspicious occasion
Select the best name for your child as this name will remain his or hers identity for rest of their life
Also See
» Annaprasana - Baby first solid food feeding ceremony
» Mundan or Chadakarana ceremony
» Baby's first birthday celebration