One of the most loved rituals in Bengal during Saraswati Puja is Haate Khori, which literally means "first writing." It is an important milestone in a child's life, as it is the first time they hold a pen or pencil and try to write. For Bengali families, Haate Khori is a special occasion, as it symbolises the beginning of a child's journey into the world of knowledge and learning, with the blessings of Goddess Saraswati.
What is Haate Khori?
Haate Khori is a traditional Bengali ceremony that takes place on Saraswati Puja, usually when a child is around the age of three or four. During this ceremony, children are guided by their parents or elders to write their first letters or alphabets. This is done by writing the first letter of the alphabet, such as "অ" (A in Bengali), on a slate, or sometimes on a piece of paper with chalk or pencil. The child is blessed by the family members and invited to take their first steps in learning, with the goddess of knowledge, Saraswati, being invoked for wisdom and success in the child’s educational journey.
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The Significance of Haate Khori
For their little hands
The practice of Haate Khori has deep cultural and spiritual roots. In Bengali tradition, this ceremony is not just about teaching a child how to write, but it also represents the first spark of curiosity and the beginning of intellectual growth. It is believed that the goddess Saraswati, who is worshipped on this day, will bless the child with the wisdom to grow, learn, and succeed in all their endeavours.
On this day, the child receives not only the gift of knowledge but also the blessings of their elders, as families gather around to celebrate this joyous occasion. The ceremony is often accompanied by prayers and mantras, seeking Goddess Saraswati’s blessings for academic excellence and success in life.
Haate Khori and The Role of Parents
Parents play a crucial role in the ceremony. As the child’s first teacher, they guide their child not only in guiding but also nurturing a love for learning. This ritual marks the beginning of a child’s educational journey, and parents use this moment to impart their hopes and dreams for their child’s future.
Additionally, the act of Haate Khori brings the family together. It’s a moment of joy and pride, as the family celebrates the child’s growth and the beginning of their learning journey. It’s a moment of shared connection between the child, their parents, and their ancestors, reinforcing the importance of education and family support.
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Haate Khori: A Memorable Gift for the Child
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While Haate Khori itself is a simple yet profound event, parents often give their children gifts to celebrate the celebration. A special gift that is both meaningful and practical is jewellery, such as a delicate piece of gold-plated pendant or a piece of 925 silver jewellery. These gifts are not only a reminder of the special day but also serve as symbols of blessings and well-wishes for the child’s future.
Such gifts can be cherished by the child as they grow older, becoming a token of the love, care, and blessings from their family. Over time, these pieces of jewellery may even become heirlooms, passed down through generations, carrying the memories of the child’s first steps into the world of learning.
Haate Khori is a beautiful and important ritual in Bengali culture, symbolising the first step of a child's journey into the world of education and learning. This moment is filled with joy, blessings, and hopes for the child’s future. As part of this celebration, giving a meaningful gift, such as jewellery, can serve as a lasting reminder of the occasion, a token of love, and a blessing for the child’s intellectual growth. So, check out the GIVA website and find the perfect gift for your child.
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