Aranjanam or Araijan Kayiru (Malayalam: അരഞ്ഞാണം Tamil:அரைஞான் கயிறு) is a girdle-like ornament tied around the waist of infants and children. Also called 'Araijan Kodi'. It is made of gold, silver or thick thread. The primary purpose is to measure the healthy growth of an infant by the increase of the waistline. Aranjanam can also fasten the cloth on the waist, similar to women using it to secure the folds of a sari. It is possible that some parents also believe that it will safeguard against evil spirits. Although in India, most women and many men continue to wear them as adults as well.