What does baby shower mean-the Indian way

Godh Bharai or Baby shower

So, your little one is on the way, and you want to celebrate your baby! A baby shower or Godh Bharai is a traditional way to celebrate the arrival of a child. It is typically celebrated about a month before the baby is born and is considered a time of good luck for the mother and child.

Many customs and rituals are associated with Godh Bharai, but in general, it's a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the new life ahead. 

Rituals 

The baby shower is one of the most important Indian rituals celebrated during pregnancy to welcome the unborn baby into the family and bless the mother-to-be with motherhood. Godh Bharai means "to fill the lap." 

It is usually performed in the seventh or eighth month of the mother's pregnancy in some homes, though others may not have this ceremony at all. Instead, they would perform a puja after the baby's birth. 

While the rituals may differ from region to region, the ceremony's purpose remains the same- to bless the baby in the womb and shower both mother and child with blessings and gifts. In some regions, the mother is rubbed with special oils by the older women in the family, then dressed up in a saree, and a puja is performed before the festivities begin. 

It is a "women-only" gathering, and there may be singing, dancing, and teasing in the ceremony. It may also include- adorning the mum-to-be with flower or gold jewelry, making her wear bangles, filling her lap with gifts, fruits, and sweets, and laying out a feast before her. 

Role Of Colours 

Traditionally colors played an important role in all Indian festivities. Similarly, in Godh Bharai, red is the most popular hue, as it symbolizes best wishes, joy, and nourishment, while yellow suggests new beginnings and happiness. However, subtle colors are gaining popularity, like sage green, rose gold, pink, etc. It is your day, mum-to-be, so wear what you feel looks best on you!