Question

According to Manu, when is the Chudakarman (tonsure) ceremony prescribed for the twice-born (Dvija)?

• A. In the 6th or 7th year
• B. In the 2nd or 4th year
• C. In the 3rd or 5th year
• D. In the 1st or 3rd year

Hint:

For Samskara ages in Manusmriti: Jatakarma (Birth), Namakarman (10th/12th day), Nishkramana (4th month), Annaprashana (6th month), Chudakarman (1st/3rd year), Upanayana (8/11/12 years). This sequence is vital for exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Manusmriti is the most influential Dharmashastra text, outlining the life cycles and duties of the four Varnas. Central to this are the Samskaras (sacraments). Chudakarman, also known as Mundana or tonsure, is the ritual of shaving a child's head for the first time, leaving a tuft of hair called the Shikha. This ritual is believed to promote health, longevity, and hygiene.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In the second chapter of the Manusmriti, which deals with the life of a student and childhood rituals, Manu specifies the timing for various ceremonies. Verse 2.35 states:
"cūḍākarma dvijātīnāṃ sarveṣāmeva dharmataḥ |
prathame'bde tṛtīye vā kartavyaṃ śruticodanāt ||"
Translation: "The tonsure (Chudakarman) for all twice-born classes (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya) should be performed according to the sacred law in the first or the third year after birth, in accordance with the Vedic injunction."
This timing is significant. The first year signifies the completion of infancy, and the third year signifies the beginning of early childhood. While some later Grihyasutras or local traditions might allow for the 5th or 7th year (especially if the ceremony is combined with Upanayana), Manu's primary injunction focuses on the 1st and 3rd year. Options A, B, and C provide timeframes that might exist in other minor texts but do not reflect the specific ordinance of Manu.

Step 3: Final Answer:
According to Manu, Chudakarman should occur in the 1st or 3rd year.