Traditions in India for a First Birthday
Throughout the ages, a child’s first birthday has been a landmark representing strength in survival, entry into the family and promise for the future. In India, the celebration still holds traditional and symbolic significance.
1 Rituals
Depending on the auspices of the date, the Hindu rituals of Annaprasanam and Mundan may be performed on a child’s first birthday. The Annaprasanam is the giving of the first solid food. The Mundan is a shearing of the child’s hair very close to the scalp, sometimes leaving a small patch at the top of the head. The priest will bless the barber and scatter the hair in the river as an offering.
2 Significance
The ritual of the child’s first food signifies the development of health. The ritual of cutting hair signifies a cleansing and purification, a severance from past lives and negative actions or traits.
3 Food
Guests are served with a banquet and a birthday cake. The child is given specially prepared rice, mixed with ghee or honey.
4 Clothing
The child wears bright colors, while guests wear traditional saris.
5 Guests
Family and friends will attend, as well as a priest. If the Mundan will be performed, a barber will also attend.
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