Indian culture has lots of traditions. Out of these, Jata karman is the very first ritual that is celebrated post birth of a child. It is extremely private rite for the family. This is why only parents, family and close relatives observe it together.

What is Jata Karman?

Jata Karman is a welcoming rite for an infant in the family. It signifies the bonding of the child with the father. It is the rite observed when the infant takes birth.

How this ritual is performed?

This ritual is very special for the father. He gets the chance to show his blood relation with the child. However, almost all rituals in hindu religion requires presence of the priest. But this one does not need any priest.

On this occasion, the family gets together. The father plays prime role in this rite. He inspects the child at the maternity room first. Then he takes a bath for getting ready for the ritual.

He takes clarified butter (ghee) and honey. Using his forefinger, he lets his child lick the concoction. For it, he touches the mix of ghee and honey on to his tongue. Subsequently, he comes closer to the infant’s ear and whispers his/her name. A few families chant hymns on this occasion.

Gryhasutra has mention of Medhahanana which determines initialization of baby’s mind. It also elaborates that the child’s intellectuality activates.

The people who enjoy strong bond with the Indian culture don’t forget performing this rite even abroad. For example, if a hindu family lives in Sydney, they book a priest in Sydney online or offline for it.

What’s its significance?

Supernatural beings scare a lot. It is believed that the child and the mother can come under the influence of negative energies post-delivery. This ritual draws a virtual protective circle around the child and the mother.

Feeding child with the honey and the butter triggers mental development. The father prays for blessing wisdom to his child.

The whispering of name signifies protection of the child from the sorcery. The name remains known to the parents only. Thereby, they ensure long life of their child.