Seemantham

This is performed during the period between the fifth and the eighth months of pregnancy. The specific materials used during this Samskara, that are for the lady only, are, the quill of a porcupine, an ear of ripe paddy and some Udumbara leaves. The deity invoked is Rika, the presiding deity of the full-moon. Their implications are: that the pregnancy should be fruitful; the child should be endowed with sharp and penetrating intellect (like the sharp quill of the porcupine). The child should be beautiful like the full-moon. The gist of the Mantra is: "I beseech the goddess Raka. May she make this ceremony blameless. May my son be endowed with sharp intellect." Music, especially on the veena, is indicated to be played on this occasion. This increases the mothers suckling power besides conferring other psychological benefits. Ladies are asked to sing: "Be a mother of heroic sons" thus creating a heroic atmosphere. The mother fasts and keeps silent after the ceremony till night time when the stars become visible. At the close of the ceremony she touches a male calf, symbolizing a son. At the time of pregnancy this is performed for the health and wealth of to born Baby and also for normal delivery. Udakasanti List

Required Materials

Name
Quantity
Turmeric Powder
1 Packet
Kumkum
1 Packet
Sandalwood Paste / Powder
1 Packet
Incense sticks
1 Packet
Camphor
1 Packet
Flowers
4 Bunches
Fruits
12 Bananas & 5 Variety fruits- 5 fruits for each variety
Betel level and nuts
15 + 15
Dry Coconut
2
Coconut
4
Rice
5 Lbs
Kalas vastram
1 Towel or 2 Yards fabric
Ghee
1 Lb
Sugar candy (Kalakanda)
1 Packet
Coins (quarters)
40
Naivedyam
Devotees choice
Paruppu Thenga
1 Set (2)
Flower Garland
2
New dress for muhurtham
1

Aalamoggu (can be bought if someone is coming from India)

Other Pooja Materials from Home :

* Deepam (Lamp), Oil, MatchBox, Cotton Wicks.

* Kalasam, Panchapatra and Uddharini, Small Trays 2 nos.

* Big Trays 2 nos, Small Cups 5 nos.

* Asirvada New Dresses, Blankets 2 nos (For Guest Seating).

* Paper Napkins and paper Plates (Sufficient quantities).

* Aluminium Foil.