Puberty is a Key Stage when a child experiences physical and hormonal changes that mark a transition from childhood to adulthood.
Infertility Prenatal Care Postnatal Care MenopauseIn ancient times, girls were expected to attain puberty between the ages of thirteen and seventeen, whereas in the present day, many girls attain puberty at a much earlier age, usually between nine and thirteen years. Therefore, it is very important that every daughter is educated about this natural phase of life and guided on how to handle the physical and emotional changes with confidence and care. In Hindu tradition, certain methods and practices are followed for girls who attain puberty, which were said to be advised by ancient Siddhars. These practices are not compulsory; they are shared only as traditional customs followed by some families to support girls during this stage. According to these traditions, if a girl attains puberty at night, the ceremony should be conducted the next morning, and if she attains puberty in the morning, the ceremony may be conducted immediately. During the ceremony, the girl is made to sit facing east and continuously chant “Om Namah Shivaya.” A bucket filled with water is then poured over her head continuously 108 times using a pot of approximately seventeen litres. Some may have concerns that this could cause cold, but it is traditionally advised that the process be done quickly, with four to five members working together to help the girl bathe swiftly. After the bath, sambrani smoke is shown to her hair, she is made to wear a saree, turmeric powder is applied to her face, and she is adorned with flowers. These are the traditional methods said by Siddhars to be followed for a girl entering the puberty stage.