Why Do Hindus Shave Off Their Head?

Hinduism has numerous rituals. Mundan, Upanayanam, marriage etc. a Hindu has to follow these set of rituals right from the time of birth. These rituals and customs form a major part of the religion and people follow them with great devotion to attain moksha or freedom from the cycle of birth.

Shaving off head or tonsuring is one of the important custom which is followed by most Hindus. In holy places like Tirupathi and Varanasi, it is a mandatory practice to shave off head and offer the hair to God. Hair is seen as a matter of pride and by offering it to God, it is believed that we get rid of our pride and arrogance. People also shave off their heads as a part of their promise made to God (mannat) in return of some kind of wish fulfillment.

So, what is the reason behind the head tonsuring and why do Hindus shave off their head? Read on to know.

ALSO READ: IMPORTANCE OF THE MUNDAN CEREMONY

The Cycle Of Birth
Hindus believe in the concept of birth and rebirth. It is believed that during the Mundan ceremony of a child, the first time that the head is shaved, is to free him/her from the bonds of the last birth. Shaving off head is the symbol that the child is beginning his/her new life in this birth. Hence, it is an important rites of passage.

Total Submission
Hair is seen as a matter of pride and arrogance. That is why by shaving off the hair we submit completely to God. As we shave off the hair, we get rid of our pride and get closer to God. It is an act of humility and a small step taken to realise God without any arrogance or negative thoughts in mind.

Mannat
People also shave off their head as a part of mannat. A mannat is a promise made to God in return of some wish fulfillment. So, when a person's certain wish is fulfilled, he/she offers the hair to God as a symbol of gratitude towards God. This practice is especially prevalent in the temples of Tirupathi and Varanasi.

Thus, shaving off head is an important custom in Hinduism. It is an act of humility and total surrender to God.