The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism (2 Vol Set)

Annaprashana

(“food-eating”) Samskara

Traditionally, this is the seventh of the
life-cycle ceremonies (samskaras) in
which the young child is first given
solid food. In many of the traditional

texts on dharma, the Dharma Shastras,

parents are directed to feed the child

animalflesh. In modern times children

are more commonly fed rice; as the

most popular grain in much of

India, rice can be considered a symbol

for food in general.

Annaprashana (“food-eating”) Samskara

A woman displays the anjali hasta hand gesture.

This gesture conveys respect and is a common greeting and salutation.