Annaprashan is a Hindu ritual that marks the introduction of solid food to a baby. It is usually performed when the baby is between 6 to 8 months old.
Annaprashan is a Sanskrit word that is composed of two parts, "Anna" and "Prashan." "Anna" means food, while "Prashan" means feeding or consuming. Therefore, the literal meaning of Annaprashan in Sanskrit is "feeding with food."
During the ceremony, the baby is fed with rice, sweetened with honey or sugar, and a few other traditional foods depending on the region and community. The feeding of solid food is a significant milestone in a baby's life as it marks the beginning of their digestive system's development.
The ceremony is usually performed at the baby's home or a temple, and it involves a priest who performs a puja, chanting of mantras, and offers prayers to the deity for the baby's well-being.
Rituals will include followings
- Gauri Ganesh Pujan
- Nav Grah shanti Pujan
- Kalash Pujan
- Bal Gopal Pujan
- Annaprashan
- Sankalp
- Mangal Aarti