What Annaprashana means
As the child begins to need more than milk, Annaprashana gives it its first solid food, as prasad of the deity. The father or a grandparent feeds the child a little kheer of rice, milk and ghee with a silver spoon, praying for strength and health.
In Bengal and Odisha it is called mukhe bhaat; in Kerala choroonu, often done at the Guruvayur temple. A playful custom places objects such as a book, a pen, money and clay before the child to see what it picks first.
How it is performed
- Worship. Ganesha and the family deity are worshipped; the kheer is offered to God first.
- First food. The father or grandparent feeds the child a little kheer with a silver spoon.
- Blessings. Elders bless the child and give gifts.
- The choice. Objects are placed before the child; what it reaches for is taken as a playful sign of its interests.
Mantras
Prayer for food (Yajurveda 11.83)
अन्नपतेऽन्नस्य नो देह्यनमीवस्य शुष्मिणः ।
annapate 'nnasya no dehy anamīvasya śuṣmiṇaḥ |
O Lord of food, give us food that is wholesome and strengthening.
Annaprashana today
Annaprashana is widely celebrated today, often at a temple, and paediatric advice on weaning at about six months matches the tradition.
Rituals differ by Veda, region, community and family. For the ceremony itself, follow your family priest (purohit).
Frequently asked questions
At what age is Annaprashana done?
Around six months — often the sixth month for boys and the fifth or seventh for girls, by family custom.
What food is given?
Usually kheer of rice, milk and a little ghee, first offered to the deity.