Baby showers

In some countries, a baby shower is a way to celebrate the expected or delivered birth of a child by presenting gifts to the mother at a party, whereas other cultures host a baby shower to celebrate the transformation of a woman into a mother. The event has different names in different cultures.

The term shower is often assumed to mean that the expectant mother is "showered" with gifts. A related custom, called a bridal shower, may have derived its name from the custom in Victorian times for the presents to be put inside a parasol, which when opened would "shower" the bride-to-be with gifts. Alternatively the term possibly denotes a "first showing" of the new baby to the wider family and circle of friends.

Traditionally, baby showers are given only for the family's first child, and only women are invited.

According to etiquette authority Miss Manners, because the party centers on gift-giving, the baby shower is typically arranged and hosted by a close friend rather than a member of the family, since it is considered rude for families to beg for gifts on behalf of their members. However, this custom varies by culture or region and in some it is expected and customary for a close female family member to host the baby shower, often the baby's grandmother.

When a baby shower is held after the birth of a baby, an invitation to attend the shower may be combined with a baby announcement.

Guests bring small gifts for the expectant mother. Mothers are usually given pampering treats. Typical gifts related to babies include diapers, blankets, baby bottles, clothes, and toys. It is common to open the gifts during the party; sometimes the host will make a game of opening gifts.

Baby shower as a term is relatively new, but the celebrations and rituals associated with pregnancy and childbirth are both ancient and enduring.

Ancient India: Baby shower in India has been followed since the vedic ages, in an event called seemantha held in the 6th or 8th month, the mother to be is showered with dry fruits, sweets grams and other gifts that help the baby's growth. A musical event to please the baby's ears is the highlight of the ritual, it was common knowledge that the baby's ears would start functioning within the womb - a scientifically proven belief.

Seemantha is a ritual to pray for a healthy baby and a mother, a happy delivery and motherhood.

Ancient Egypt: Ancient Egyptians did not hold baby showers as we know them today, they did observe rituals associated with birth and pregnancy.

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Wikipedia