Lord Ganesha in Hindu dharma has a unique place in the pantheon of Gods. He is the protector of mankind and no wonder Griha Pravesh Puja (or Vaastu puja) is performed invoking His blessings. Besides being a protector, he bestows good fortune and riches. Griha Pravesh Puja involves certain rituals like lighting the sacrificial fire (homam); breaking coconut, sprinkling holy water with mango leaves in all corners of the building and boiling milk to overflow as a sign of prosperity.
A specific date must be decided for Griha Pravesh Puja.
Hindus before entering a new home thank the almighty and their ancestors for helping to build a house or buy one. Invoke blessings of gods and ancestors is an important ritual before starting new life in new surrounding and the Griha Pravesh Puja becomes an important ritual to keep away evil eye, spirits or negative energies.
Like the wedding ceremony graha pravesh puja has lot of significance. No doubt a house is a precious possession for an individual. Invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha is the first step and a sacred step. The puja requires several items and each of one has a special significance. A homam or sacrificial fire lit and the mantras chanted purify the surrounding. Coconuts are broken and holy water is sprinkled around the house in all corners. Conch shells are blown and camphor lamps lit to ward off evil spirits and purify the environment within and outside the house. There is the possibility that in time gone by someone was murdered or buried below. This puja wards off evil spirits.
Ancient scriptures insist on Griha Pravesh Puja. If ignored bad luck could befall and harm the inmates. Once the puja is completed the family should reside there for at least 3 days and keep the house well-lit with a wick lamp lighted with sesame oil to ensure evil vibration does not exist.
Graha Pravesh puja comprises Vaastu Shanti and Vaastu puja which all mean the same as the exercise is of harmonizing the environment. Homam is the most important aspect of it which is prayer to Fire God though all the remaining four elements of nature too are included. Sky, air, water, and earth. Each element needs to be balanced to produce a conducive environment.
Graha Pravesh ceremony is always followed by grand feast for family, friends, and relatives. Special guests too sometimes make their appearance.