Upanayanam

Upanayanam(Upa=Auxiliary, Nayanam=Eye) literally means bringing (the ultimate truth) nearer in sight. It is the name given to a ceremony performed to young boys of 7+ years of age (and girls in some sects), born of the Dwija castes in Hindu system.

The youngster, with a basic Vedic learning, is taught during the ceremony, the secret of life through Brahmopadesam(Preaching/Advising on the nature of Brahman – The Ultimate Reality) or the Gayatri mantra.

He then becomes qualified for a life as a student or Brahmacharya, as prescribed in the Manusmriti

In modern India, this practice has all but vanished from the Hindu society and is noticeable only among members of the Brahmin community.