February 1, 2025

Thread Ceremony

Mahwah, New Jersey


Images for my friend & filmmaker, Sharbari Bose Kamat, of her son's Upanayana Sanskar or' Thread' Ceremony, which is a Hindu rite of passage that signifies one drawing closer to one's faith. It is typically held between the ages of 8 and 12. During the ceremony, children learn the words to the Gayatri Mantra (“Holy Mother, we meditate upon your divine, radiant light so that you may enlighten our intellect.”), which they commit to reciting every day. They also receive a sacred thread that represents the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar. Wearing it formally marks the beginning of their religious studies. The ceremony ends with family members giving gifts and blessings.