Indian Festivals

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<b>Upakarma </b>
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->Upakarma is a highly auspicious ceremony for the Hindu Brahmin community. It is the day the sacred thread worn by Brahmins known as ‘Yagnopavitam’ is changed. There are Brahmins who are the followers of Rig Veda, Yajur Veda and Sama Veda and they have separate dates for Upakarma. The Upkarma dates in 2009 are August 5, August 6 and August 23. The ritual is also known as Avani Avittam in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

<b>Yajur Vedi Upakarma is observed on the Shravan Poornima day </b>(Full moon day in Sawan month). Brahmins who are the followers of Yajur Veda change the sacred thread on the day. In 2009, the date is August 5.

<b>Rig Vedi Upakarma is observed on the day after Shravan Poornima</b>. Brahmins who are the followers of Rig Veda change the sacred thread on the day. In 2009, the date is August 6. This day is also known as Gayatri Japam day.

<b>Sama Vedi Upakarma is observed on the day after Shravan Amavasi </b>(No moon day in Sawan month). Brahmins who are the followers of Sama Veda change the sacred thread on the day. In 2009, the date is August 23.

Legend has it that Lord Hayagriva, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, got back the Vedas stolen by the Asuras (Demons) on the Shravan Purnima day.

Upakarma means ‘the beginning.’ After a holy dip in a sacred river or pond or Tritha, male Brahmins change the sacred thread and wear a new one. Symbolically the ritual means a new beginning.

Students also begin the study of the Vedas on this day.
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