Namkaran Puja, or the naming ceremony, is performed to name a newborn child. It is one of the 16 rituals or "Samskaras," in Hinduism, which are processes of growth that symbolize different stages of a person's life.
Namkaran Puja Samagri
Kalash Water
Coconut
Mango leaves
Diya Incense sticks
Flowers
Fruits
Betel leaves and nuts
Akshat (rice grains mixed with turmeric)
Kumkum Haldi (turmeric)
Chandan (sandalwood paste)
Ghee (clarified butter)
Honey
Dhoop
Kapoor
New clothes for the child
Silver or gold coin (optional)
A small container of milk
Panchamrit
For The Havan Havan
Kund
Ghee
Havan Samagri (special mixture for fire ritual)
Wood sticks (preferably sandalwood)
Cotton wicks Dry fruits (optional)
Namkaran Puja Vidhi
The Namkaran Puja starts with preparation, which includes selecting a suitable day with the help of a pujari or astrologer and properly cleaning the house, particularly the puja place. Design an attractive temple, including an image or idol of Lord Ganesha, a Kalash and all the required items. Start by requesting Lord Ganesha to remove difficulties while taking a Sankalpa to carry out the ceremony honestly. During the main ceremony, the child is bathed in holy water and dressed in new clothes and the pujari chants specific mantras while speaking the chosen name into the child's ear three times. The ritual ends with family and guests blessing the child by sprinkling Akshat and flowers.
Significance of Namkaran Puja
The ceremony is believed to bring God's blessings for the child's health, happiness and wealth. Culturally, it represents the child's formal entry into the family and community. Astrologically, the name given at the ceremony is frequently chosen based on the child's horoscope, which matches their astrological birth chart.
Ans.During the Namkaran Puja, pandit chants the baby's name while repeating Vedic mantras, invoking the blessings of all Gods, Goddesses and Agni Dev.
2. Which days are best for Namkaran?
Ans.Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays are considered auspicious for Namakarana.
3. Which nakshatra is best for Namkaran Puja?
Ans.Ashwini, Satabishak, Swati, Chitra and Hasta Nakshatras are very beneficial for Namkaran.
4. What are the benefits of a naming ceremony?
Ans.Naming ceremonies are important because they bring family and friends together to celebrate a new family member. It's a time to strengthen bonds between the child, their family and friends.
5. Can we change the baby's name after Namakaranam?
Ans.Yes, names can be changed after the Namkaran Puja.