Types of Griha Pravesh
- Apoorva: entering a newly built home for the first time.
- Sapoorva: returning to a home after a long absence.
- Dwandwah: entering a home after renovation or rebuilding.
Choosing the muhurat
Choose an auspicious date based on the Panchang and the family's horoscopes. Months such as Magh, Phalgun, Vaishakh and Jyeshtha are traditionally favoured; Chaturmas and Kharmas are avoided.
The ceremony
- Decorate the entrance with a toran, rangoli and flowers.
- Enter with the right foot first, carrying a kalash of water.
- Perform Ganesh puja, Vaastu shanti and Navagraha puja.
- Boil milk in the new kitchen until it overflows, a symbol of abundance.
- Offer food to priests and guests.
After entering
Traditionally, the family should stay in the home the first night and not leave it empty for the first few days.