Tushoo kesuu

How it happens

When a child begins to walk, their legs are loosely tied with a cord twisted from black and white thread — representing the light and darkness that await them in life. Older children race, and the winner cuts the ties. The child takes their first steps in freedom.

Why it is here

The ritual explains the origin of alternating colors in the ornament and why the "light-dark" pair appears in motifs as a norm rather than a contrast for expressiveness. It also explains which gift is appropriate for a child's first year.