Upanayana is a traditional Hindu rite of passage that marks the initiation of a young boy into formal education and spiritual life. Typically performed between the ages of 5 and 12, this ceremony is most commonly associated with the Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya castes. During the ritual, the boy is given a sacred thread, known as Yajnopavita, which symbolizes his new status as a student and his commitment to learning. The ceremony involves various rituals, including the chanting of mantras and the blessing of the boy by his guru or teacher. After the Upanayana, the boy is expected to begin his studies, focusing on the Vedas and other sacred texts. This rite is significant in Hindu culture, representing the transition from childhood to a more responsible phase of life.