When should we do the mundan (first haircut)?

traditionally in the first or third year; many families choose an odd year and a good muhūrta.

The mundan or cūḍākaraṇa is the saṃskāra of the child's first full haircut. Manusmṛti says it should be done in the first or the third year, and many families follow the custom of an odd year — 1, 3 or 5. Often a lock (śikhā) is left at the crown, depending on family custom.

Many families do it at a family temple or a tīrtha such as Tirupati, Vaiṣṇo Devī or on the bank of the Gaṅgā, while others do it at home with a small pūjā. The hair is offered at the temple or into a river. The meaning given is a fresh start: the hair from birth is removed, and the child is blessed for health and a clear mind.

Practically, choose a time when the child is well and the weather is mild, apply a soothing paste such as sandalwood or turmeric afterwards, and use a careful barber. A priest or our muhūrta page can help with the date.

Source: Manusmṛti 2.35 · Commonly in an odd year

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