Godh Bharai

Traditional Gujarati-Indian Ceremonial Baby Shower
Godh bharai/Shrimant/Shaad/Seemandham/Valakappu is an Indian Hindu ceremony. The literal meaning is to fill the lap. The expecting mom is dressed like a bride and the friends and family bless the new mom-to-be with gifts - token cash and saree or jewellery in the case of close relatives. Traditionally, no gifts are given for the baby—only the mom. Everyone puts “tikka” (vermilion) on the mom’s forehead, prays for her and the baby’s wellbeing, followed by the aarti. Everyone rejoices the pending arrival of the baby.