Rites of passage: A case study of Upanayana Samsakara ceremony in Hindu society

Abstract

This qualitative study analyzes and discusses rites of passage with regard to a case study of Upanayana Samsakara in Hindu society in terms of its concepts, theories, significance, and background. Upanayana Samsakara is found in religious and non-religious sociocultural contexts. Non-religious activities include commencement day and retirement day. Religious events include Bar Mitsvah in Judaism, Confirmation in Christianity and Upanayana Samsakara in Hinduism. Upanayana Samsakara is an important ceremony, particularly for Brahmanas, Kshatriya, and Vaisyas. The Brahmacari ceremony is strictly for boys, which is called Brahmacariya ashram and Gurukula. These graduates are instilled with Hindu beliefs, morality, and ethics which can underpin their lives, personalities, awareness, roles, responsibilities, personal development, and help preserve Hindu culture and support.