The Upanayan as a distinct ceremony is wide-spread among the Brahmins of Bengal. However, it is essential for all castes and if not done separately, has to be done before the marriage rituals. The parents of the boy host the Upanayan ceremony and invitation cards are sent out. The guests are served lunch or dinner. The parents give gifts to the new brahmachari as do the guests.
Gifts are according to one's choice.
Watches, clothes and utensils are also popular gifts. A Brahmin priest cuts off hair from four different places of the head and later the child is taken to a barber who shaves the head off completely. It is believed that this shikha is a protective armor which shields the man from all kinds of negative things around. The ear is pierced for purity of body and mind. It is done with a porcupine quill by a barber, and the hole should be big enough for the sun to be seen through it.