When is the naming ceremony done — the 11th day, 12th day or later?

traditionally on the 10th–12th day after birth sūtak ends, but it can be done later on any good day.

The Gṛhya Sūtras place nāmakaraṇa on the 10th or 12th day, once the birth impurity period is over. In North India this is often combined with barahī or barsā (the twelfth-day celebration); in the South, the 11th day (puṇyāhavācana) or a day in the third month is common; some families wait until the 3rd or 6th month.

A simple ceremony: puṇyāhavācana or a Gaṇeśa pūjā for purification, then the father (or both parents) whispers the chosen name in the baby’s right ear, often three times, and elders bless the child. Some write the name on rice in a plate. A small havan and lunch for family follow.

If the mother or baby is unwell, or you are travelling, there is no harm in postponing. Many families give an informal name earlier for hospital papers and do the formal ceremony later. The name is a blessing, not a test of the date.

Source: Gṛhya Sūtras; regional custom varies

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