What Griha Pravesh means
Griha Pravesh is the ceremonial first entry into a new home. The word means "entering the dwelling". Its purpose is to settle the house — to acknowledge the land, the directions, the elements and the household deities before daily life begins there.
The sequence on the day
- Ganapati Pooja — every ritual begins by invoking Ganapati so the ceremony proceeds without obstruction.
- Punyahavachanam — purification of the space and the participants using consecrated water from the kalasha.
- Vastu Shanti — prayers to Vastu Purusha, the presiding spirit of the built space, and to the guardians of the eight directions.
- Kalasha Sthapana — a copper pot filled with water, mango leaves and a coconut is installed as the seat of the divine presence.
- Navagraha Prarthana — invoking the nine planetary influences for a settled, prosperous household.
- Milk boiling — milk is boiled in a new vessel on the new stove and allowed to overflow towards the east, symbolising abundance that flows outward.
- Havan — offerings into the consecrated fire, with 108 or 1008 ahutis depending on the package.
- Prasadam — distribution to family and neighbours.
Who should be present
The head of the household and their spouse must be present for the sankalpa. Other family members may join at any point. The couple traditionally enters first, right foot forward, carrying the kalasha.
Practical notes
The house does not need to be fully furnished, but the kitchen must have working gas and water. Allow a clear 6x6 ft area for the homa. If a homa is included, ensure ventilation — this is why morning slots are preferred.