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What is the age limit as per the scriptures of getting a Yajnopavita for the various varnas?

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Ideal time to perform the sacred thread ceremony:

Manu Smriti 2.36. In the eighth year after conception, one should perform the initiation (upanayana) of a Brahmana, in the eleventh after conception (that) of a Kshatriya, but in the twelfth that of a Vaisya

The maximum age limits till which sacred thread ceremony can still be performed for the three varnas:

Manu Smriti 2.38. The (time for the) Savitri (initiation) of a Brahmana does not pass until the completion of the sixteenth year (after conception), of a Kshatriya until the completion of the twenty-second, and of a Vaisya until the completion of the twenty-fourth.

And if Upanayana is not performed even within those prescribed time limits, then this is what happens as per Manu:

2.39. After those (periods men of) these three (castes) who have not received the sacrament at the proper time, become Vratyas (outcasts), excluded from the Savitri (initiation) and despised by the Aryans

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  • ok the Brahmana here means son of Brahmana right?
    – user9969
    Aug 21, 2017 at 16:26
  • Yes., that's right @SuryaKantaBoseChowdhury
    – Rickross
    Aug 21, 2017 at 16:26
  • And what if I am a son of a Vratya? Can I get initiation?
    – user9969
    Aug 21, 2017 at 16:27
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    As per Smritis Sudras (or one who is not initiated) should not chant Om, Swaha, Gayatri and few others. As per Agamas no mantras should be chanted without Diksha (initiation). So, its better to get a Dilksha before chanting. I can't tell for sure what will exactly happen, but i don't think it will be something good. :) @SuryaKantaBoseChowdhury
    – Rickross
    Aug 21, 2017 at 16:39
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    @SethuSrivatsaKoduru - pretty sure he doesn't speak without scriptural backing.
    – mar
    Jan 22, 2021 at 4:06

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