Before the first brick is laid, families perform Bhoomi Puja — worship of Mother Earth (Bhoomi Devi) and Vastu Purusha — to seek permission to build, and blessings for a safe and smooth construction. In Telugu states it is called Sankusthapana.
When is it done?
Bhoomi Puja is done before digging the foundation, on a muhurat fixed by the pandit from the owner’s details. Days with Rahu Kalam, Vishti karana and inauspicious months are avoided. The panchang and Choghadiya help you see the day at a glance.
Steps of the ritual
- The plot is cleaned and the north-east corner (Ishanya) is chosen for the puja.
- Ganapati puja and sankalpa with the owners’ names and gotra.
- Bhoomi and Vastu puja — the Earth and the guardian of the site are worshipped.
- Digging and sankusthapana — the first digging is done, and a peg or foundation stone is placed with navaratnas, coins and grains.
- Naivedyam and aarti, followed by distributing prasad to the workers.
What to keep ready
- Kalash, coconut, mango leaves, turmeric, kumkum, flowers and akshata
- A spade or pick decorated with turmeric and kumkum
- Bricks or a foundation stone, navaratnas or coins, and grains
- Sweets and fruits for prasad, and water
Why it matters
Traditionally the puja asks forgiveness of the Earth for disturbing her, and seeks the protection of Vastu Purusha for everyone who works on the site and will live in the house. Many families also find it a meaningful way to begin a long project together.
Book a pandit for Bhoomi Puja — they bring the samagri and arrive on time for the muhurat.