In Hindu South Indian tradition, the prenatal rite performed to bless a pregnancy and prepare for childbirth is called Seemantham.
Seemantham is a traditional ceremony connected with the well-being of the pregnant woman and unborn child. Families invite relatives, perform religious observances, and present food or gifts. In some versions, ritual acts are intended to protect the pregnancy and support a safe birth.
The word and customs are especially linked with Telugu, Tamil, and other South Indian communities, but details vary by language, region, caste, and family. Some families perform Seemantham together with Valaikappu, the bangle ceremony, while others treat them as distinct observances.
Seemantham is sometimes described as a Hindu equivalent of a modern baby shower, but the comparison is only approximate. Its central purpose is ritual blessing rather than simply games, decorations, or gift exchange.