Aranjanam
Aranjanam or Araijan Kayiru (Malayalam: അരഞ്ഞാണം Tamil:அரைஞான் கயிறு) is a girdle-like ornament or thread tied around the waist of adults and children. Also called 'Araijan Kodi' or 'Aranjana Charadu' It is made of gold, silver or thick thread in red or black. The primary purpose is to measure the healthy growth of an infant by the increase of the waistline. Aranjanam can also fasten the cloth on the waist, similar to women using it to secure the folds of a sari. It is possible that some parents also believe that it will safeguard against evil spirits. Although  in India, most women and many men continue to wear them as adults as well. Ancient Tamil people used it, mentioned in Tolkappiyam, Sangam literature describes the usage of Araijan by the words "வெண்ஞான்" (Venjan - made of silver) and "பொன்ஞான்" (Ponjan - made of gold). A village in Tamil Nadu was named after it called 'Venjan Kondaan' meaning one who wore Silver Araijan. Thin ornamental gold,silver chain or thin thread in red or black worn around the midriff, under clothing. In India, it is worn by many women and men An Aranjanam is given to babies of both genders and  all religious affiliations, particularly in south India, on the 28th day after the baby's birth, as part of a ceremony called Noolukettu in Kerala and Irupathettu in Tamil Nadu which the baby is given its name, its first jewellery, eye makeup and a meal of sweet porridge. Aranjana Charadu. Aranjana Charadu (Malayalam: അരഞ്ഞാണ ചരട് Tamil: Telugu: మొలతాడు) is a sacred waist thread that tied around the waist and above the genitals of men, women and children. This is an ancient custom that has been followed from ages and age and it is believed tying the thread around the waist  is the sign of protection from evil spirits. These traditional practice mainly being followed by Hindu and Muslim Community in South India. Its usually Black or red colored threads. Metals like silver or gold are also used. It is also often see women's and many men in south india ties the thread around their waists with amulet (Malayalam: ഏലസ് Tamil: தாயத்து). In Tamil Nadu the thread called as Araignan Kayiru. According to Indian mythology, it is believed that one must never remain nude from birth till death. But wearing a thread on waist the effect of nudity on body  gets nullified. Also, in ancient people believed these thread have many health benefits such as promote growth of strong and healthy genitals prevents diseases like hernia and helps in development of healthy bones, keep weight and waist size under control by improving digestion. Noolukettu. In Kerala, this ceremony is performed on the 28th day after birth of the child, as this is the first time the nakshatram (star) of the child repeats according to the Malayalam calendar. During the ceremony, charadu (thread), one in black or red cotton and the other a chain in gold are intertwined and tied around  the waist of the child - this is usually done by the father of the child. This thread is called 'Aranjanam'. The child's eyes are lined with mayye or kanmashi (Kohl). A black spot is placed on one cheek or asymmetrically on the forehead, to ward off the evil eyes. The father whispers the chosen Hindu name in the child's right ear three times while the left ear is covered with a betel leaf. This is then repeated with the left ear. A mixture of ghee (melted and clarified butter) and honey is given to the infant as a  base for its various foods in the future.