Smantonnayana

Smantonnayana is an important ceremony in the Hindu society. It is held to ensure the birth of a beautiful, sharp-witted and intelligent child. This ceremony is carried out between the 5th and 8th month of pregnancy.

Smantonnayana Ceremony is carried out by the women folk of the household. Rika, the deity of the full moon, is invoked during this ceremony. A quill of porcupine, a ear of ripe paddy and some Udumbara (an auspicious plant ) leaves are offered to the deity. Each of these materials has its own significance. The quill represents the sharp wit of the child, while the plant and the leaves are for the prosperity and beauty of the child.

During the ceremony, soft soothing music from the Veena is played. The music is believed to be beneficial for the psychological growth of the child. Following the ceremony the mother maintains a period of silence till the night time. At night time she may touch a male calf, signifying her preference for a male child.