In Hindu religion, the Jatakarma ceremony plays a significant role in welcoming a newborn into the world, and Ayushya is a crucial aspect of this ritual. The term "Ayushya" itself is derived from Sanskrit and is associated with bestowing a long and healthy life upon the newly born child.
During the Ayushya rite, the father of the child takes on a
central role. The ritual involves the father murmuring specific mantras over
the navel or into the right ear of the infant. These mantras are carefully
selected from sacred texts, and in this particular case, they are drawn from
the Kathaka Samhita (11.7.66). The choice of mantras is significant, as they
are believed to invoke divine blessings for the child's longevity and
well-being.
One of the prominent mantras used in Ayushya begins with
"agne ayurasi," and these verses are recited with utmost reverence
and devotion. The repetition of the word "ayushmat" in the mantras
underscores the emphasis on bestowing a life filled with vitality and
prosperity upon the newborn.
The inclusion of such rituals reflects the rich tapestry of
traditions and beliefs within Hinduism, emphasizing the spiritual and
auspicious aspects of a child's entry into the world. The Jatakarma ceremony,
with its various rites like Ayushya, not only serves as a religious sacrament
but also strengthens the cultural and familial bonds, marking the beginning of
a child's journey with blessings for a long, healthy, and prosperous life.