Karnavedha

[1] Brahmins, especially those studying the vedas, undergo karnavedha and the other samskaras during their lifetime.

Some scholars advise that the performance of karnavedha should be considered just as important as upanayanam (sacred thread ceremony - another major samskara) and the other sacraments as each holds its own symbolic spiritual value.

Karnavedha is considered a vedic rite of passage with symbolic spiritual significance.

Hearing of sacred sounds with concentration is considered meritorious in that it cleanses the mind and nurtures the spirit.

During certain medieval periods, "karnavedha" became associated with religious attire and its performance became obligatory to the extent that its non-performance became regarded as sinful among some communities.

Karnavedham of Brahmin boy (both ears pierced)