Godh bharai in India is similar to a baby shower in the western world. For women who may have already crossed the halfway mark in their pregnancy, godh bharai is held to celebrate them and their baby. If you are a mom-to-be, read this post as we discuss some interesting godh bharai ideas. The function calls for a lot of pomp, show, excitement, and pampering for the mom-to-be. Scroll through the article to know all about what godh bharai ceremony is, how it is performed, some godh bharai game ideas, and more.
What is Godh bharai?
Godh bharai is the Indian baby shower ceremony that exuberantly celebrates the beauty of pregnancy and motherhood. Godh bharai rasam (ceremony) is performed during pregnancy to pray for the good health of the mother and baby, and the safe delivery. The Hindi word Godh bharai translates to “filling up the lap”. It is celebrated across India under various names – Srimantham in Andhra, Shaad in Bengal, Valakappu in Tamil Nadu, Seemandham in Kerala, Dohalejewan in Maharashtra and Shrimant in Gujarat.
When is godh bharai done?
In most families, Godh bharai is performed in the seventh month of pregnancy as people believe both the mother and the baby are now in a stable and protected phase. However, the time of the ceremony may vary as per the family’s traditions and customs. While some families celebrate it in the seventh or ninth month, some families choose not to have a godh bharai ceremony and perform a puja (prayer) only after the child is born.
How is Godh bharai performed?
Godh bharai rituals may differ from one region to the other, but the essence stays the same — welcoming the baby and showering the mother-to-be with blessings and gifts. Here’s how it is usually celebrated:
Traditionally, the ceremony is hosted by the parents of the mother-to-be or her parents-in-law.
A puja or havan is performed before beginning the festivities.
Godh bharai is a woman-only function, but sometimes men are also invited.
The mother-to-be is decked up in her traditional finery, including bangles, jewelry, a special saree, and flowers. In most communities, the godh bharai ceremony is celebrated with as much dressing up and fanfare as a wedding.
In some households, the pregnant lady is anointed with special oils by the senior women of the family.
All the family members and close friends come together to honor the mother-to-be, bestowing gifts, such as jewelry, garments or money, on her lap.
Gifts for the baby are given only after the birth.
In godh bharai ceremonies, games play an important role. Popular ones are guessing the gender of the baby by looking at the mom’s pregnant belly, coming up with names for the baby, ‘antakshari’ (a song game), ‘passing the parcel,’ and teasing the mother in good humor.
An arrangement of dance and music is specially made to spruce up the event. Lastly, everyone is treated to a sumptuous meal.
Godh bharai is all about blessings and making the mom-to-be feel happy and wanted. You can make it memorable for her with a bit of planning and care.
Tips for mom-to-be on Godh bharai
The day is going to be a long and tiring day. Follow these tips to have a relaxing yet memorable day. You may also share your ideas on entertainment and return gifts. No ceremony is complete without fun games.
Godh Bharai Game Ideas
Here are some godh bharai games you can try. The twist is that the members can use only one hand to perform this task. The team who finishes first wins. To do this, request your guests to bring an item that represents how the parents’ journey is going to be years after the baby is born. For example, a packet of diapers, a onesie, then some bigger clothes as the baby grows, a school bag, etc., or a personal note for the baby about his/her mom and dad. Godh bharai is not complete without song and dance. Next, we give you a list of songs that are apt for the occasion.
Beautiful songs for godh bharai
Bollywood movies have a history of godh bharai ceremonies and related songs. Here are some you can use: In a traditional setup, celebrations are done in almost the same way. But if you are up for trying some refreshing ideas, check our list below.
Unique Ideas for Indian Baby Shower
Although a baby shower in India is a very traditional gathering, there are no restrictions on coming up with some changes. Here are some ideas that you may try:
