There are sixteen sanskars in Hinduism. They are the
important functions during a life time of Hindus. The sixteen sanskars are
given in Hindi with their meaning in English:
- Grabhadhan: Conception,
- Punsavana: Fetus protection,
- Simanta: Satisfying wishes of the pregnant Mother,
- Jaat-Karma: Child Birth,
- Naam Karma: Naming Child,
- Nishkramana: Taking the child outdoors,
- Annaprashana: Giving the child solid food,
- Mundan or Choula: Hair cutting,
- Karna Vedh: Ear piercing,
- Yagyopaveet: Sacred thread,
- Vedarambh: Study of Vedas and Scriptures,
- Samaavartana: Completing education,
- Vivaah: Marriage,
- Sarvasanskaar: Preparing for Renouncing,
- Sanyas (Awasthadhyan): Renouncing,
- Antyeshti: Last rite, or funeral rites.