Annaprashan Puja is a Hindu ritual that celebrates a child's first intake of solid food. The word "Annaprashan" is derived from the Sanskrit language, where "Anna" means food, and "Prashan" means feeding. This ceremony is typically performed when a baby is six months old and marks an important milestone in the child's life.
During the Annaprashan Puja, the baby is fed rice pudding or "kheer" for the first time. The rice pudding is usually mixed with clarified butter or "ghee," and the baby's mother or a close relative feeds it to the child. This is followed by a prayer ceremony to bless the child and offer thanks to the gods for the child's health and well-being.
The Annaprashan Puja ceremony can vary depending on the region and family traditions. In some regions, the ceremony is performed on an auspicious day according to the Hindu calendar, while in others, it is performed on a day selected by the family. The ceremony is typically held at home, and close friends and family members are invited to attend.
Overall, the Annaprashan Puja is an important tradition in Hindu culture that celebrates a child's first intake of solid food and marks an important milestone in the child's life.