Page 50 of: Glories of India (Culture and Civilization)

FAMILY LIFE OF SACRAMENTS AND SACRIFICES 21
The next sacrament, Simanta-unnayana, literally
means the upbrushing of the hair of the head of the
mother. This is done by way of a formal declaration of
the pregnancy. The hairbrushing is applicable during
the first pregnancy only. Another similar ceremony
is performed when the bride is taken home after mar-
riage and the husband loosens the knot of the maiden
hair (Aśvaliyana, 1, 7, 18).
The main purpose of this sacrament is, however,
indicated by its other designation, Panchamṭita, five
nectar, or more generally sadha-bhakshaṇa which means
the fulfilment (lit. eating) of the desires of a pregnant
woman. This is generally performed in the fifth or
sixth month of pregnancy when the foetus takes
shape. The ceremonies include, in addition to the
parting of the hair which is the simanta-unnayana
proper, physical decoration, musie, and eating of
desired objects in company
of friends. The lute
playing and singing of heroic songs (viṇa gayana)
supply the craving for cheerful mind. The putting of
the wreath of udumbara flowers (of which the plant was
originally fixed in the nuptial bed to prevent physical
contact) round the wife's neck is indicative of the
physical decoration with clothes and ornaments also,
which is a natural craving of women. It also indicates
the unrestricted company of the husband, which is also
an instinctive desire of women. The sipping of water is
similarly indicative of eating all nice things especially
those which an expectant mother wants to taste. Last-
ly the looking at the images reflected in water and to
declare by the wife to the husband, 'I see sons, cattle,
and long life of my husband' imply the perfect mental
satisfaction.
The fulfilment of the expectant mothers desires
from the time when child takes its physical and mental
shape medically prevents the physical deformities and
the mental deficiencies of the child to be born. Most of
the defects are inherited. The ancient texts offer a
probable explanation. In this matter an experiment
whenever possible can do only good and no harm.
The post natal care commences with the sacrament
known as Jata-karman, the ceremonies performed on the
birth of the child. All the texts agree in the main purpose
of these ceremonies, iz., the greeting of the child by the
father and the transferring of personal influence and