Choulakarama (also known as Chudakarana) is a traditional Hindu rite of passage, typically performed for young boys, marking the first haircut. It is an important ritual in some Hindu communities, especially in Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya families.
The ceremony involves the child’s first haircut, symbolizing their entry into a new phase of life. In some traditions, it is believed to signify the removal of impurities and the start of the child's formal education or social life. The ritual is often performed when the child reaches a certain age, commonly around the age of 1, 3, or 5, depending on cultural customs.
During Choulakarama, prayers and rituals are offered to invoke blessings for the child’s health, longevity, and well-being. The ceremony is usually conducted in the presence of close family and friends and may include traditional offerings, music, and a festive meal.
This rite signifies the shedding of the old and the embracing of the new, symbolically marking the beginning of the child’s formal education and socialization.