Grihapravesh is an important ceremony in the Hindu community. The word ‘griha’ means ‘house’ and ‘pravesh’ means ‘entry.’ This ceremony is performed before entering a newly constructed or purchased home for the first time. Grihapravesh also indicates the entry of bride to her husband’s home after the wedding. A small ritual is held by her mother-in-law to greet her.
Whenever a house is purchased or built, the new residents of the house perform the Grihapravesh ceremony before actually beginning their stay in it. This is believed to be necessary for the well being of the residents and to ward off any evil forces if present. An auspicious date and ‘muhurta’ (auspicious time) is chosen for this ceremony in consultation with an astrologer.
A Grihapravesh ceremony consists of a ‘puja’ (worship) to Lord Ganesh, who is considered as the remover of obstacles. Offerings of camphor, sesame, grain and other herbal ingredients are made to holy fire which represents Lord Agni (fire god). The smoke from this fire is believed to purify the air and environment within the house and its surroundings. Other rituals and rites are performed to seek the blessings of the gods and goddesses to bless the new home and its residents.
The Grihapravesh ceremony is not restricted to new homes. It is also performed for new offices and business establishments.
