Bratabandha

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Bratabandha is a penance ceremony for pre-adolescent boys. The boys are supposed to go begging on that day as a mark of humility.

Only the uncle from the mother's side can stop the boys from going out to beg. The uncle usually lures the boys by giving them money so that they will decide not to go out and beg. This is followed by shaving of the boys head which is usually performed in front of a priest. It is also believed that the boys aren't around to step foot on the ground before the ceremony. The custom is usually compulsory for Bhramans after which they acquire a set of strings which has to be worn around the waist and shouldn't be taken out. This also follows that some Bhramans become bound not to eat certain meat excluding chicken if they prefer.