Florida Times-Union
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA, September 1, 2004: (HPI note: This is a small item carried in a local newspaper giving an account of a Hindu sacred thread ceremony. These are useful reports in educating the local community about Hindu customs and traditions.) Tushar Chakravarty has a unique experience to share with his classmates at The Bolles School. Over the summer, the ninth-grader participated in an Upanayan, also known as the sacred thread ceremony, an ancient Hindu tradition for boys between ages 9-14 among the Brahmin caste. During the ceremony, officiated by Hindu Priest Kanai Mukherjee, Tushar underwent a physical transformation. The Deercreek resident was anointed with turmeric and shivered as he was showered with ocean water gathered before dawn. “I can feel the wind,” he exclaimed as his hair was shaved off. Clothed as a Hindu monk, he did not flinch as his ears were pierced. This physical transformation symbolized his commitment and dedication to the ideals of the ritual, which, according to a handout at the initiation, provides “a sense of duty, honesty, self-respect and . . . the self-control required of men for good and strong character.” “I’m pretty proud that we can keep up with the tradition,” said Tushar’s father, Amit Chakravarty, who also underwent the ceremony in his youth. “It will give him a better insight into himself and how he can apply his skills. This will be a guide for him. A guide to be a better human being.” As the ceremony proceeded, Tushar promised through Sanskrit mantras to adhere to the spiritual guidelines of the event. For one year, he will recite a special prayer three times a day and follow a strict vegetarian diet. He also must not speak during meals. “I’m excited that we’re carrying on the tradition; I don’t want it to die out,” Tushar said. “Hopefully, we will carry it to my children and their children.”