An Upanayanam (or Janoi) is a Hindu rite-of-passage ritual, marking the point at which male Brahmin children begin their formal education. Traditionally, the ceremony marks the time when a boy begins his study of the Holy Scriptures, under the guidance of a Guru. The meaning of Janoi is “sacred thread” in Gujarati – a thread that he will wear around his torso for the rest of his life.

The thread put around the boy is made up of three strands. These are life-long reminders that he has three debts to discharge; to his god; to his parents and to his spiritual teacher. Shaving the head is also an important part of the ceremony as it symbolises “freedom of the past”.

The ceremony is full of symbolism; from the uncles chasing the young boy, to him having his head shaved and what the thread represents. Each aspect focuses on the responsibilities the child will start to embrace.