3. Sīmantonnayana
The hair-parting rite — a blessing for the mother
In Sīmantonnayana, between about the fourth and eighth month, the husband parts his wife's hair, traditionally with a porcupine quill and sprigs, while mantras are sung. It honours the mother-to-be and prays for her calm and the baby's well-being.
It is very much alive as a joyful family gathering: godbharāī in the North, Valaikāppu in Tamil Nadu (with glass bangles), Sīmantam in Andhra and Telangana, Dohale Jevaṇ in Maharashtra, Sādh in Bengal. Women bless the mother with bangles, flowers and her favourite foods.
4th–8th month · Godbharāī / Valaikāppu