Indian Customs 101: Annaprashan

The ceremony to mark a baby's first introduction to solids --"Annaprasan" (Sanskrit : "grain initiation") is held after the 6th month, where the maternal uncle or grandfather feeds the baby tiny morsels to symbolise the start of weaning. Among the variety of foods offered is always rice-pudding or "payesh" -- the auspicious dessert that promises long life and good health. After the ceremony a little game follows where a number of objects are put on a tray for the baby to choose: books for learning, a pen for wisdom, jewels for wealth. Whatever the baby picks is meant to represent his area of interest in the future!!

Pictured above is our good friend and client Esha dressed head to toe in Pia Ka Ghar for her son's Annaprashan.