Choodakarana (Mundan, the first tonsure) is the samskara of a child’s first ceremonial haircut. It is a gentle rite of purification and blessing, traditionally performed in the early years of life, often at a temple.

Significance

Offering the child’s first hair is a gesture of humility and gratitude, and is believed to bless the child with health and growth. Many families fulfil this at a temple — at Tirumala the offering of hair (mottai) is an especially cherished tradition.

When Is It Performed?

  • Traditionally between the first and third year, on an auspicious day (often an odd year; customs vary).
  • Choose a shubha muhurtam via a panchang or your purohit; the child should be well on the day.

Items (Samagri)

  • A lamp, turmeric, kumkum, rice (akshata) and flowers
  • A small kalash, fruits, sweets and prasadam
  • If at a temple, follow the temple’s tonsure arrangements

Step-by-Step (common form)

  1. Light a lamp and invoke Lord Ganesha — "Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha".
  2. The purohit/elders perform a brief sankalpa for the child’s well-being.
  3. A small lock of hair is offered first with blessings; the tonsure is then completed gently.
  4. Apply a little turmeric/sandalwood to soothe the scalp; offer prayers, prasadam and celebrate.

Note: customs and timing vary by region and family — follow your elders or purohit.

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How NRIs Perform It Abroad

  • A simple home version with a symbolic first lock and blessings is acceptable; many NRIs complete the full tonsure on a trip to a temple in India (such as Tirumala).
  • Arrange a purohit in person or online; involve grandparents over a video call.

Planning a temple trip? See our Tirumala Tirupati Balaji NRI guide. See also the 16 Samskaras guide and Annaprasana.