In the Hindu society, the piercing of the ear holds a special significance and it is done in a special ceremony known as Karnavedha. The piercing, which is usually done for the girls, is held when the child attains the age of three or five. It is believed that piercing of the ears is beneficial for the health, although many people do it for purely ornamental reasons.
The Karnavedha ceremony is held either in a temple or at home. The child is given a bath prior to the ceremony and is dressed in new clothes and ornaments. A person who is well versed in the scriptures related to this ceremony and who has good experience is invited to do the piercing. The right and left ear lobes are pierced, chanting holy verses. Following the piercing of both ears, thin wire-like objects are inserted into the holes to prevent them from closing. Some ointments are applied to heal the wound.
