Upanayanam (Sacred Thread)
ఉపనయనం
Sanskrit: उपनयन · Category: Sanskara
Quick Definition
The Vedic initiation ceremony where a boy receives the Yajnopavita (sacred thread) and is initiated into Gayatri.
Detailed Explanation
One of the most important saṃskāras — typically performed between ages 5-11 for Brahmin boys (varies for other varnas). The boy receives the Janeyu (sacred thread of 3 strands representing trinity), takes 3 vows (Brahmacharya), and is given the Gayatri mantra for daily recitation.
See Also
Related Terms
Author & Sources
Compiled by Pandit Ramachandra Sharma, Vedic Astrologer & Panchangam Scholar. Definitions cross-referenced against classical texts: Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, Muhurta Chintamani, Surya Siddhanta, Gṛhya Sūtras. See the full Vedic Glossary for 58 terms across Panchanga, Astrology, Calendar, Dosha, Ritual, and Sanskara categories.