Procedure of Avani Avittam
The procedure of upakarma varies from state to state. However there are two main procedures one followed in the old Carnatic Region and other in the Dravida region.
Carnatic Region procedure is followed in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and parts of Maharashtra. According to the Rig Veda Upakarma, first they start with Punyahvaachana followed Saptarshi Pooja, Utsarjana Homa and later by Upakarmaanga Saptarshi pooja, tarpana and homa.
In Yajur Veda Upakarma of Karnataka region, the procedure begins with Punyahavaachana, Pahi Trayodasha Homa, utsarjana and then Upakarma. Here they worship nava (nine) Kaanda Rishis who were the pioneers in the veda. Distinct feature of Karnataka's Upakarma is rishi pooja in detail, and utsarjana. The Dravida version of the same does not have them. After Yagnopavita daana, new yagnopavita will worn and later Veda Aarambham is done. Following the same will be Viraja Homa and Brahma Yagna. In the first year of Upakarma, Nandi is also performed. Bachelors or Brahmacharis will perform Agni Kaarya or Samhida Daanam. The prasadam of the day is specially made Satvada hittu made out of all fruits (banana, guava, grapes, custard apple, apple, dry fruits), milk, ghee, til, jaggery, cucumber and rice flour. This is said to be very good for the rishis who are considered to be old and don't have teeth. Hence this preparation. Also this is done jointly by men who come for the ceremony.
The procedure for the dravida yajurveda upakarma is as follows.
- First the Rishi Tharpanam (offering prayers to the ancient Rishis) is read out.
- Brahmin bachelors perform 'Samitha Daanam' and 'kamo karshith japam' after Mahasankalpam.
- Thereafter, Kaanda Rishi tharpanam is performed with the help of family priest or elders.
- As per the rituals, all the male members should have a light meal at night.
- Next day after an early bath, 'Gayathri Japam' is read out by everyone. Thereafter, Appam & Idli are served.
- Green Gram, Dhal or Kondai Kadalai Sundal are offered as Neivedhyam for the Homam (Fire ritual).
- The Homam is performed either in the house or in temples and the Arti is performed after everyone returns home.
- Neivedhyam - Payasam, Vada, Gingely seeds, Rice. The other items that are served on this day are Curd Pachadi, Kosumalli Curry, Koottu, Pitlay, buttermilk, soup, rasam, dhal and chips, appalams.
Read more about this topic: Upakarma