Welcome Arjun! Picture Extravaganza!
It's a good old fashioned baby welcoming! Here are photos of the family and neighborhood (same thing) gathering held by Suni and Vinesh to officially welcome their sweet boy Arjun into the circle of loved ones. 
Vinesh with his neice.
Outdoor seating
The ceremony started at 9:00 sharp, and since we arrived at 9:03 we missed it. We didn't realize how strict the timing was and that it only lasted about two minutes. Vinesh was dressed in a ceremonial lungi, no shirt, and a shawl around his shoulders. Suni wore a traditional Kerala sari (the colors are saffron and cream). They held Arjun so he was standing in a dish of uncooked rice grains. Mark and I speculated that this symbolizes life (the main food, staple), and abundance. Then Arjun was given anklets and jewelery that the babies here wear.
The ceremony started at 9:00 sharp, and since we arrived at 9:03 we missed it. We didn't realize how strict the timing was and that it only lasted about two minutes. Vinesh was dressed in a ceremonial lungi, no shirt, and a shawl around his shoulders. Suni wore a traditional Kerala sari (the colors are saffron and cream). They held Arjun so he was standing in a dish of uncooked rice grains. Mark and I speculated that this symbolizes life (the main food, staple), and abundance. Then Arjun was given anklets and jewelery that the babies here wear.
Vinesh, Suni and Arjun
Suni's Brother and Suni's father, sweet, good cooks, and large and in charge.
After that was chow time. The dish for celebrations here is chicken biriani. It is a rice dish, lightly spiced and lightly sweetened with cashews and raisins. It is delcious, my favorite Kerala dish. They fed so many people that day. The first guests started eating at about 10 a.m., and people kept wandering up until late in the afternoon.
The event had the laid back feel of a family reunion or holiday gathering. It was awesome. Love until next time! -Asenath
