Samskara #1 of 16 · Prenatal (Garbha)
गर्भाधान
Garbhadhana
Garbhādhāna
Timing: Conception — performed by the couple before attempting pregnancy
Purpose
To consecrate the act of conception with prayer and sacred intent so the soul invited into the womb begins life under auspicious vibrations.
The ritual
The couple takes a ritual bath, performs sankalpa stating the intention to invite a noble soul, offers prayers to the Pitrs (ancestors), and the husband recites mantras for a healthy progeny.
Key elements
- ●Sankalpa with both names + gotra
- ●Prayers to Prajapati + ancestors
- ●Specific mantras from Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 6.4
- ●Auspicious tithi + nakshatra selection
Performed by
The couple, optionally guided by a family priest
Scriptural reference
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 6.4; Grihya Sutras
Modern relevance
Pre-conception health planning + couple alignment on values — the spirit of this samskara translates beautifully to modern preparation for parenthood.