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Sanskar: Nurturing Values That Shape Humanity
Sanskar (संस्कार) is the foundation of Bharatiya Sanskriti (Indian culture). It refers to the moral, ethical, spiritual, and cultural values that shape an individual’s character and guide their life choices. In Sanatan Dharma, Sanskar is not just taught — it is lived, practiced, and passed on with devotion.
What is Sanskar?
Derived from the Sanskrit root “Sam + Kar” meaning well-formed or refined, Sanskar refers to the process of refinement — of the body, mind, and soul.
It is a lifelong journey of shaping one’s:
Thoughts (Vichar)
Actions (Karma)
Character (Charitra)
“Sanskar is what remains after all knowledge is forgotten.”
Types of Sanskars in Sanatan Dharma
In Hindu tradition, there are 16 major Sanskars (Shodasha Sanskaras) — key rituals that mark life’s sacred stages, such as:
Garbhadhana – Conception ritual
Namkaran – Naming ceremony
Vidyarambha – Beginning of education
Upanayan – Sacred thread ceremony
Vivah – Marriage
Antyeshti – Final rites