An unidentified boy

An unidentified boy

Champaneria Photo Store Co., Surat
circa 1920

Photograph with studio mount
14.8 x 12 in. (37.6 x 30.5 cm.)

A newly initiated young boy dressed in complete priestly regalia of jama pichori and shawl ready for his navar ceremony. The ceremony would initiate him into priesthood. He carries the gurz in his right hand which is symbolic of priesthood. The coconut in his left hand symbolizes both the outer/physical and the inner/spiritual world. The turban or pugree is worn before the ceremony.