Simantonnayana is one of the important Hindu samskaras for a pregnant woman and it is the hair parting ceremony. In Hinduism, the Simantonnayana ceremony is performed for health and long life of the mother and for the protection of the fetus (unborn child). The ceremony is usually performed in the fourth or the fifth month as per the Grahyasutras. The ancient texts are of the view that the ceremony can be held anytime from the fourth month to the eighth month.
After the fourth month the development of the baby’s organs starts. In Hindu religion, it is believed that the mind of the child begins from the fifth month. Pregnant women were required to take utmost care during the period and this was symbolically explained by parting of hair. Another reason for the ceremony was also to keep the mother happy, peaceful and content. As it is believed that the mental health of the mother influences the child.
The ceremony differs from community to community. And the parting of the hair in some communities is performed by the husband.
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What does the ceremony actually consist of? Is the hair brushed/combed/oiled before the parting? Are there mantras or prayers said for it? What is the perceived relation between the between the child's mental development and the hairparting? In those communities where it is not the husband doing the ceremony, who is to do it? Another family member, or the mother-to-be herself? Thank you.
The ceremony varies from community to community.
In General, the hair is brushed, oiled and combed before parting in the traditional Indian way.
Yep there are prayers and local folk songs that are part of the ceremony. This is different for each community.
It is believed to help in the mental health of the mother which in turn helps in the peaceful and happy development of the fetus.
If husband is not present the parting is done an elderly female member.
Such ceremonies are only limited certain Hindu communities.
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