Annaprashan

Annaprashan (first rice feeding ceremony) is the Samskara marking a baby's transition from milk to solid food. Usually performed when the child is six to eight months old, this ceremony is celebrated with great joy as it represents nourishment, growth, and the child's first step toward independence. The Panchang plays an important role in selecting the right day. Favorable Nakshatras include Ashwini, Rohini, Mrigashira, Pushya, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Shravana, and Revati — Nakshatras associated with nourishment, health, and growth. Pushya, whose name literally means "nourisher," is considered the single best Nakshatra for Annaprashan. Shukla Paksha is mandatory. The auspicious tithis for this ceremony mirror those for other child-related Samskaras. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are preferred weekdays. The ceremony involves feeding the child their first bite of kheer (sweet rice pudding) or another cooked food, usually by a respected family elder. The timing should coincide with Abhijit Muhurat or another favorable hora for maximum auspiciousness.