Annaprashan Puja is a celebration of a child’s first solid food. ‘Prashan’ means ‘to eat’. This ritual is normally conducted around six months of age. It is a child’s first solid food. This ceremony asks God to bless the infant with healthy digestion. It is a happy occasion when friends and family gather to bless the child’s health and life.
This rite is crucial because it invokes all Gods, including Agni, to bless the child’s health and life. It helps purge the child’s past impurities. It also commemorates a child’s entry into our society and the human world.

The newborn baby is usually fed cooked rice with ghee. Naivedyam presented to Griha Devata and Annapurnadevi during Pujas for long life and protection.

Where Can I Perform Annaprashan Puja

• You can perform it at home or a temple.
  Some parents opt to rent a banquet hall or a community centre.
• A major Hindu temple in Kerala, Guruvayoor, is preferred by many parents.
• Others do Annaprashan at home in central or eastern India.
• If you’re doing the wedding at home, a priest can assist with the religious rites.