Namakarana

🌸 Introduction

Namakarana is the fifth of the sixteen Vedic Samskaras. It is the sacred naming ceremony performed on the 11th or 12th day after birth.

🎯 Purpose

• Bestow an auspicious name
• Remember Lord Vishnu
• Select a name based on Nakshatra

📅 When?

• 11th or 12th day
• Auspicious tithi
• According to family tradition

🪔 Materials

• Kalasha
• Tulasi
• Akshata
• Flowers
• Gold ring

🕉️ Sankalpa

For the pleasure of Lord Narayana and the auspicious naming of the child.

📜 Procedure

1. Achamana
2. Ganapati Puja
3. Punyahavachana
4. Nakshatra determination
5. Whisper the name three times into the right ear
6. Blessings

📿 Mantra

Om Śrī Viṣṇave Namaḥ । Om Āyuṣmān Bhava॥

🌺 Significance

A sacred name becomes the child's lifelong spiritual identity and connection with Dharma.

📚 Scriptural Basis

• Apastamba Grihya Sutra
• Manusmriti
• Madhwa tradition