Hinduism

In Hinduism, the birth of a child is considered important, but the naming ceremony contains more rituals. The birth is traditionally done at home, and relatives generally don't visit until the naming ceremony. This ceremony does not occur until twelve days after the child's birth. Like all of the other important occasions, it includes a lavish meal. Not only does family attend the ceremony, but also friends. If the baby is of a higher caste, a Brahman priest will conduct the ceremony. The ceremony itself consists of two important rituals:

 

The first ritual is the priest reciting specific lines from sacred text.  Next, the priest consults with the Hindu Almanac (or Panchangam) and pronounces the name of the child previously chosen from the parents.  After these two parts are complete, the feast begins. This is a time of hope and promise for the baby's future.