उपनयन(Upanayana)

To initiate the Brahmacharya phase (student life), entrust the child to a Guru, and instill discipline, learning, and spiritual pursuit.

Upanayana marks the initiation of a child (traditionally a boy) into formal spiritual education, especially the study of the Vedas. It symbolizes the child’s second birth—one of knowledge and discipline. The purpose is to initiate the Brahmacharya phase (student life), entrust the child to a Guru, and instill discipline, learning, and spiritual pursuit. Related concepts include Brahmacharya, Vedic Learning, and Spiritual Rebirth. Modern adaptations sometimes include girls and focus on character development.

A crucial rite traditionally for Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya varnas, making one eligible to study Vedas and perform Vedic rituals (Dvija - twice-born). It establishes the Guru-Shishya (teacher-disciple) relationship, central to Vedic learning.