Griha Pravesh Puja

Griha Pravesh Puja is a Hindu ritual performed before entering a new home to purify the space and seek the blessings of the divine for prosperity, happiness, and well-being in the new dwelling. It is believed to ensure the harmonious settlement of the family in their new residence, ward off negative energies, and invite positive vibrations.

Apurva (New House): Conducted when entering a newly constructed or purchased home that has never been inhabited before.

Sapurva (Old House): Conducted when moving into a home that was previously occupied by others. This is further divided into two categories:

• Nava (New Owner): When a new owner moves into a previously owned home.
• Vriddhi (Renovated): After renovations or repairs have been made to the house.

Steps for Performing Griha Pravesh Puja:

Choosing an Auspicious Date and Time:

• Consult a Hindu priest or astrologer to determine an auspicious date and time for the Griha Pravesh based on the homeowner’s horoscope (kundali) and Vastu Shastra (traditional Indian architecture).

Preparation:

• Clean the house thoroughly, removing any impurities or negative energies.
• Decorate the house with flowers, rangoli (decorative patterns), and mango leaves (considered auspicious).

Ganesh Puja:

• Begin with Ganesh Puja, invoking Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles and ensure a smooth transition into the new home.

Kalash Sthapana (Installation of the Sacred Pot):

• Place a Kalash (copper pot filled with water, adorned with mango leaves, and topped with a coconut) at the entrance or in a suitable place in the house. This symbolizes purity and abundance.

Vastu Puja:

• Perform Vastu Puja to appease the Vastu Purusha (deity of the dwelling) and seek his blessings for peace and prosperity.

Punyahavachanam:

• Conduct the Punyahavachanam ceremony, where mantras are chanted to purify the house and its surroundings.

Havan (Fire Ritual):

• Perform a havan (fire ritual) using ghee, dried wood, and specific herbs while chanting Vedic mantras. This ritual purifies the environment and invokes positive energies.

Offerings and Prayers:

• Offer fruits, sweets, and other traditional items to the deities and seek their blessings for the well-being of the family.

Griha Pravesh Ceremony:

• The homeowner enters the house with the right foot first, carrying grains (like rice or mustard seeds) and coins as a symbol of prosperity.
• The wife holds a pot filled with water and leaves to signify nourishment and growth.

Aarti and Blessings:

• Perform Aarti (waving of lighted lamps) to ward off evil spirits and invite positive energies into the home.
• Seek blessings from elders and priests for happiness, prosperity, and longevity in the new home.

Feast and Celebration:

• Conclude the Griha Pravesh Puja with a traditional feast (satyanarayan puja) and celebrations, sharing the joyous occasion with family and friends.