The cradle ceremony, popularly known as Uyala or Namakaranam in Telugu, is one of the most cherished first milestones we celebrate for our baby. Traditionally held on the 21st day after birth, this special occasion marks the baby’s formal introduction to family and friends. In Telugu customs, it is also the day when the baby’s name is officially revealed.
In this post, I’m sharing 3 simple cradle ceremony decoration ideas—perfect for families in the USA or anyone who loves DIY setups and prefers decor that’s simple yet elegant.
Uyala Ceremony (Cradle Ceremony) in Telugu Tradition
- When it’s done: Usually held on the 21st day after birth, though some families may do it on the 11th, 16th, or even later, depending on convenience and family customs.
- Main ritual: The baby is gently placed in a decorated cradle (uyala) by elders in the family, usually grandparents.
- The cradle is often decorated with flowers, garlands, and traditional fabrics.
- Lullabies or traditional songs like “Jo Achyutananda Jo Jo Mukunda” are sung to bless and soothe the baby.
- Elders and guests take turns to gently rock the cradle and bless the baby with some akshatalu (turmeric rice).
Naamakarana Ceremony (Naming Ceremony):
- The grandparents or parents usually whisper the baby’s name into the baby’s right ear.
- The name is then formally announced aloud to everyone present.
- The name is also written in the rice grains spread on a plate using a gold ring or finger as a symbolic gesture.
Embracing Simplicity While Honoring Tradition
While growing up in India, I recall these ceremonies as being filled with grandeur—colorful decor, flowing sarees, a room filled with relatives, and, of course, a beautifully decorated cradle for the newborn. But when you’re in the USA, away from family and cousins, and also recovering from childbirth with no help, hosting something extravagant isn’t always realistic.
My second C-section was one of the hardest things I’ve been through. The recovery was brutal—I couldn’t walk properly for almost two weeks, and honestly, I had no hopes of celebrating the cradle ceremony. But close to 21 days postpartum, I started feeling a little better. My sister-in-law flew in to help, and our close friends—our chosen family here—showed up with so much love. We pulled together a small, simple celebration. It wasn’t grand or picture-perfect, but it was deeply meaningful. And for me, that was everything.
A Gentle Reminder for New Moms: Your Healing Comes First
The truth is, this is a beautiful ceremony, but it comes at a time when you’re still aching, and barely sleeping. As a new mom, you’re recovering in every way—physically and emotionally. So if you find yourself unable to plan a big celebration, or if you choose to skip it altogether, please, please don’t feel guilty.
There will be so many moments ahead to celebrate your baby—their first laugh, first step, first word. This one day, as special as it is, doesn’t define your love or devotion.
Your healing matters more than anything else right now. And your baby? They won’t remember the backdrop or the food. But they will feel your calm, your strength, and your love—as you slowly come back to yourself.
Simple Cradle Ceremony Decoration Ideas
1. Minimalistic Decor With Balloons and Flowers
When my son was born, we were in the middle of the COVID pandemic. With no family around to help and everything being so new, we were figuring it all out on our own as first-time parents. I couldn’t even manage to get a Kurta set for him—I didn’t know of any good brands back then, and the lockdown made options so limited.
There was practically no decor, just ballons but I still want to put this option out cause celebrations can also look like this -simple and intimate and still be memorable and beautiful.
We had such a special time.
I love these kinds of occasions– because they become these sweet little pockets of memory I can look back on and smile. It doesn’t matter how big or small the event was.
To be honest, the simpler events always end up meaning more to me. They’re less stressful, and I get to enjoy them—be present, soak in the moment, and connect with the people who are there.
And at the end of the day, that’s what stays with you—not the grandness, but the smiles.
It’s not just about decor—at that age, balloons are actually something babies love. Both my kids would stare at balloons endlessly!
One fun little tip: tie a couple of balloons loosely to your baby’s ankles (something I’ve shared in this post as part of kicking activities for babies). As they move and kick, the balloons bounce around, which encourages them to kick even more. It’s such a simple way to engage them—and it makes for adorable photos too!
For decor, we tied balloons to the cradle and adorned the top with white floral garlands. It added the perfect festive touch while keeping everything simple and sweet.
Shop The Decor
2. Decorate the Cradle With a Saree
I did this decor for my best friend’s daughter’s cradle ceremony, and it turned out so beautiful! We used a bassinet We pleated the saree just like how we drape it on ourselves—creating neat pleats in the front, then wrapping the rest of the saree around the bassinet.
We secured the pleats with safety pins and gently tucked them into the sides of the bassinet, pinning the fabric in place to keep everything neat and secure. It gave the cradle a beautifully elegant and traditional look, all with minimal effort.
We adorned the top of the bassinet with floral garlands and rolled a couple of them into circular shapes to create a simple yet beautiful centerpiece design.
For the backdrop, we went with floral garlands to complete the traditional look. Alternatively, you can use a fabric backdrop with a printed frame or border design that complements your theme—it’s a simple yet elegant option that works beautifully.
To hang the garlands, we threaded their loops onto a rope and then secured the rope to the fireplace using strong tape. It was an easy DIY setup that held everything in place and looked lovely in photos.
Shop The Decor
Bassinet
3. Whimsicle Garden Theme Decor
This was the decor we did for our daughter’s cradle ceremony back in December. We reused the leaf garlands from my son’s Jungle-themed cake smash and hung them across the window by taping them to the wall to bring in a fresh, natural touch.
We decorated the same wooden cradle we used for our son, with the same white floral garlands pinned over the top. We also covered the sides and feet of the cradle with matching garlands to tie it all together.
To give the cradle some height, we placed it on a coffee table and covered the table with a floral crib bed skirt. It matched the garlands perfectly and added a soft, whimsical charm to the entire setup.
This was a simple decor setup that even a mom just 21 days postpartum could manage. It was minimal, meaningful, and doable during recovery.
Here are a few pictures from the ceremony…
Some Heartwarming Pictures from the Cradle Ceremony
Vinnie wth her Ammamma and Tattha (maternal grandparents)
We kept the day simple and special by doing a quick ceremony in the morning with just family. Her grandparents placed her in the cradle and whispered her name into her ear. Although we had already shared her name when she was born, this ceremony was our way of honoring the beautiful custom of the cradle celebration.
Later in the evening, we invited close friends over for dinner. When everyone arrived, we placed her in the cradle again so they could see her, bless her with Akshantulu, and be part of the celebration. It was a relaxed and joy-filled evening with loved ones.
This was our very first mommy-and-me matching outfit, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget. After going through a challenging labor and recovery, this felt like a quiet celebration—not just of her arrival, but of my journey into motherhood. It was a special milestone for both of us.
Because there’s nothing sweeter than a newborn yawn.
My Sister-in-law and nephew, who always make sure to be part of our special days <3
Cherishing this special photo with my parents.
Last but not least, yours lovingly!
I had saved this saree for over two years, waiting for the perfect occasion—and the Uyala ceremony felt just right. One of my all-time favorite color combinations that never goes out of style. I got the saree from Svasthi Sarees on IG
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