When is annaprāśana, the first rice, done?

traditionally in the sixth month, when the baby is ready for solid food.

Annaprāśana means “feeding of grain”. Manusmṛti places it in the sixth month, which matches the age when babies usually begin solid food. A common custom is to do it in an even month (6th or 8th) for boys and an odd month (5th or 7th) for girls, though many families simply follow the doctor's advice on when to start solids.

After a small pūjā, usually to Gaṇeśa and the family deity, the father, grandfather or maternal uncle (in Bengal, the mother's brother is often honoured with this) gives the baby a little rice kheer from a silver spoon or with a ring. In many homes a playful custom follows: books, a pen, money, jewellery and soil are placed before the baby to see what they reach for.

Keep the first food very soft and plain, follow your paediatrician on quantity and allergies, and treat the day as a joyful family blessing.

Source: Manusmṛti 2.34; Gṛhya Sūtras · Around the 6th month

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