Barsala Ceremony : A Joyous Celebration Of A New Life
Barsala Ceremony : Also Knowns As Naming Ceremoy , The Joyous Celebration of a New Life.
The first cherished ceremony that embraces the arrival of a newborn is known as Barsala or Naming Dolarohana. This significant ritual, also referred to as Balasare, holds great importance in Hindu tradition as it marks the 21st day after the child’s birth. Originally introduced by the revered Adi Shankaracharya in 2000 AD, the Naming Ceremony is a beautiful tradition carried out by the girl’s family, symbolizing blessings of longevity, prosperity, and abundance.
Vamakhilasya Vyavahara Hetuh Shubhavaham Subhagya Hetuh,
Namnaiva kirtim labhate manushyastatah prashastambhalu nama karmah.
These verses beautifully depict the auspicious nature of this sacred ritual. After the completion of Jatakarma, Ganapati Puja, and Punya Havacana, the Naming Ceremony commences, enveloped in a divine ambiance.
The Method of Naming unfolds as the father carefully places rice on a plate, drawing three lines from south to north. The first line represents Srikaram, and in the subsequent cells, the name corresponding to the month of the child’s birth, the name aligned with the birth star, and the chosen practical name are inscribed. Following this, the priest chants the sacred mantras, invoking the blessings of Agni, Moon, Yajna, and Gods. These mantras are the essence of Ayurveda, long life, and are accompanied by rituals such as pooja, japa, homa, and charitable offerings.
Preserving the sanctity of tradition, Vedic priests officiate over the rituals, ensuring every step is performed with reverence. As the names are written, the presence of Srikara at the beginning and end is of utmost importance. The priest bestows blessings upon the child, showering them with Akshatas, symbolizing the divine grace associated with the chosen names.
Similar blessings are bestowed for Nakshatra Naam. The priest then assumes a seat on the southern side and recites the Abhimantra for the son, uttering the powerful mantras of “Angadangat…” while tenderly smelling the child’s head. The mantra “Agnirayushman…Karomi” is whispered into the right ear, signifying a prayer for a long and prosperous life. It is customary to offer milk mixed with gold to the child, an act believed to bestow special blessings. For a girl, the same rituals and blessings are offered, as Hindu tradition cherishes them on equal footing, expressing unity and equality among all.
Barsala Ceremony & Beliefs
In accordance with the rituals, it is recommended that parents refrain from consuming meat for a year following the Naming Ceremony, as guided by the wise teachings of Varaha and others.
Four Methods of Naming hold significance in this joyous occasion.
The first method considers the birth star, while the second method relates to the birth month and its ruler. The third method takes into account the finger associated with the child, and the fourth method embraces the name by which the child is commonly addressed. Additionally, family traditions and educational background can also influence the chosen name, further adding depth to this cherished custom.
It is worth noting that in some families, unique names are bestowed upon children born after the passing of loved ones, symbolizing protection against malevolent spirits. As per our rich traditions, family members and well-wishers may present fruit tambulam or offer delicious food to celebrate the occasion. On this auspicious day, joyful activities like pot throwing and bitter herb offerings into wells are carried out, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Let us remember that the time-honored methods of naming remain preserved, symbolizing the everlasting beauty of our traditions and the profound significance they hold in embracing a new life.
Also Read : https://telugutraditions.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=721&action=edit