upavīta

The upavita, or sacred thread, is a significant symbol in Hinduism. It is part of the upanayana ritual, an initiation ceremony for male children of the three upper social classes (varna): Brahmans, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas. This ritual marks a boy's transition into the life of a student (brahmacharin) and his acceptance into the religious community.1

The upavita itself is a sacred thread, typically made of three symbolically knotted and twisted strands of cotton cord. It is worn constantly throughout the owner's life, usually over the left shoulder and diagonally across the chest to the right hip. This thread identifies the wearer as dvija, meaning "twice-born," signifying a spiritual rebirth that occurs when the guru imparts a sacred mantra. The ceremony concludes with the student kindling a sacrificial fire and begging for alms, symbolizing his dependence during his student period.12