Uttarakhand's Badhan Pujan: Calf Naming & Prosperity Rituals

• Badhan Devta is the deity of animal protection and prosperity in Uttarakhand's hill culture.
• "Gad Chadhana" or Badhan Pujan is a naming ceremony for newborn calves, performed on the 7th, 9th, or 11th day after birth.
• Milk from a newborn animal is not consumed for 11 days, ensuring the calf receives adequate nourishment.
• The puja involves making a Ganesha idol from cow dung, adorning the calf, feeding it jaggery, and offering "Lapsi" to the deity.
• These traditions highlight the cultural significance of animal husbandry and milk ("dhinai") as symbols of wealth and purity in mountain society.

Why It Matters: Uttarakhand's traditions link animal welfare, milk purity, and community prosperity.