Birthday customs in India

In India, where Hindu is the most common religion, it is customary for a child celebrating his first birthday to have his head shaved. This act symbolizes the shedding of negative energies associated with past lives. Additionally, the birthday child is adorned in bright clothing and hands out chocolates to all of his schoolmates. The children kneel at their parents' feet as a sign of respect. And the celebration also includes visiting a shrine for a special prayer.