What is Nishkramana Sanskara?

What is Nishkramana Sanskara? 

In simple words, the Nishkramana ceremony means the newborn's first outing. The baby is taken out of the house for the first time to introduce it to nature and its surroundings. It is the sixth of the sixteen samskaras mentioned in the Hindu religion. 

Most parents prefer taking their kids to the temple for their first outdoor visit. They offer prayers to the deities to seek blessings for their baby's well-being and safety. It is one of the most joyous moments for parents as they introduce their children to the real world. 

What is the right time for Nishkramana Ceremony?

In Hindus, the Nishkrama ceremony is performed in the fourth month of the child’s birth, usually on an Ekadashi or Pradosh. It is planned for when the mother and the baby come out of the Sutikagara. A priest helps choose an auspicious day for the function. 

The fourth month period is considered ideal because, by this time, the baby develops enough immunity to face the challenges of the external environment. 

Who can perform the Nishkramana Ceremony?

Ideally, the Nishkramana ceremony is performed by the child’s parents. However, some families choose the maternal uncle or any other family member to perform this function. 

What happens in the Nishkramana Ceremony?

The Nishkramana function requires the following preparations by the parents:

• Bathe the baby and dress them in new clothes.
• If you are celebrating the function at home and not a temple, choose a place in the courtyard where you can see the sun. 
• The child’s mother plasters the selected area with cow dung and clay. Later, she spreads rice grains there. 
• The father ensures the child looks at the sun during the day and the moon at night. 
• Prayers are offered to the Sun, Moon, and other natural elements. 

Wrapping up

The Nishkrama ceremony is organized to help kids get comfortable with the outer world where they will spend their lives. With prayers and divine offerings, the ceremony ensures your baby is always safe and healthy. The ritual gives a nurturing start to the child’s interaction with the world. Sending blessings and love to your little one!