Senior experiences rite of passage: String Ceremony

It was June 2009 when senior Kushal Haran, who was 13 at the time, took part in his own Upanayana, or “String Ceremony,” a common Hindu tradition for all boys.

Since he was little, Haran knew that the day would come. As he stood on stage with a Vadhyar, a religious authority figure, and began to recite numerous Hindu prayers, he felt not only accomplished, but also a sense of pride for finally partaking in his very own ceremony.

This day signified his becoming a Brahman — the transition between childhood and one’s rite of passage.  To Haran, this day was not only important but also extremely exciting.

More commonly known as a String Ceremony, Upanayanas are celebrated when a boy is between the ages 7 to 13.  But boys can only be of an odd age in order to take part in the ceremony.

Originating in the ancient caste system in India, where Brahmans held the highest status, this ceremony marks an important time in a boy’s life.  During the ceremony, a string is put around one’s body, and the boy wears it for the rest of his life.

The string is divided into three threads, each of which represents a different deity. The first deity is Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and art. The second is Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, and the third is Parvathi, commonly known as the goddess of power.

“Those who celebrate Hinduism continue with the traditions, even though the caste system has been abolished,” Haran said. “The traditions are less strict than they were long ago, but they are still important.” 

Following the Upanayana, boys must complete a set of prayers every morning, afternoon and night. They also often add strings to themselves during different and important stages of one’s life, such as when they marry.

Haran admits that even though he doesn’t follow all of the requirements of the Upanayana, he occasionally recites prayers, which are called Sandhyavandanams. 

“I normally recite my prayers before a test or speech and debate tournament,” Haran said. “I feel like it kind of gives me good luck.”

Haran says that even though people aren’t as serious about Upanayanas nowadays, it’s still important.

“I’m happy that I was able to have my own,” Haran said. “Even if I don’t follow all of the traditions, it still remains a part of my life, and that in itself is an accomplishment that I look back on and am proud of.”