THE CULTURE AND CUSTOM OF THE INDIAN COMMUNITY: BIRTH: GIVING BIRTH

WHISPERING GOD NAME

As soon as a baby is born a Hindu monk whispers gayatri mantiram, that is a God mantra, to the baby ears before the umbilical cord is cut. This action is to ensure the baby hears God name before he hears other sound, and to give blessing to the baby. However, this custom can be adapted to situations by only whispering as soon as the baby is seen if one cant be in the delivery room.

THE UMBILICAL CORD

The cut umbilical cord is buried with the placenta within the house compound together with copper shillings, turmeric powder, salt and betel nut. These materials are to prevent the placenta from being dug up by wild animals or used by witches.

SMEARING HONEY

Honey with ghee is smeared on the newly born baby tongue. Honey is believed can soften the baby tongue for easier speech. Savvennai oil that is a mixture of sesame oil and mambu can also be used. This action is believed can give beauty to the baby and the baby will not succumb to illnesses. A drop of the sesame oil mixed with a little mother milk and smeared to the baby mouth prevents constipation and helps in the babygrowth.