Griha Pravesh
The housewarming ceremony performed before a family first occupies a new home.
About the Ritual
Griha Pravesh literally means "entry into the house." It is performed before a family moves into a newly built or newly purchased home, invoking Vastu Purusha (the presiding deity of the dwelling) along with Ganesha and Lakshmi to bless the space with positive energy, protection and prosperity, and to neutralise any negative influences from the construction process.
Why to Perform
Hindu tradition holds that a home carries the energy of the land and the manner of its construction. Griha Pravesh purifies this energy before the family begins its life there, and is considered auspicious for the wellbeing, health and fortune of everyone who will live in the home.
Who Should Perform
Performed by the head of the household along with immediate family, ideally on a muhurat (auspicious date and time) selected according to the family's panchang. It should take place before anyone has stayed a full night in the home.