'A completely different world': Ukrainian creator on Indian housewarming rituals vs Europe

A Ukrainian content creator, Sandra On, has drawn widespread attention on social media after comparing housewarming celebrations in India with those in Europe. In an Instagram post, she noted that she had earlier assumed such gatherings were largely uniform across the world, until she attended one in India, which she described as a strikingly different experience rooted in tradition, gratitude and modernity.

Contrast in timing and structure

On observed that Indian housewarming events begin considerably earlier in the day than their European counterparts, which typically commence in the evening. She said the celebrations in India start around 6 am, with families gathering for prayers even before breakfast, as the initial focus rests on seeking blessings for the new home.

She further explained that Hindu priests are invited to conduct a puja, with prayers offered for protection, prosperity, peace and happiness in the household. Breakfast follows only after these rituals are completed.

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Rituals precede festivities

According to On, the day continues with additional rituals, devotional music and collective chanting, followed by lunch. It is only after these observances that the occasion gradually transitions into what she called a conventional celebration.

She contrasted this with European housewarming customs, where guests are usually invited in the evening, and the gathering centres on a meal, conversation and a tour of the home, often accompanied by wine.

Emphasis on gratitude stands out

On said that what struck her most was not the rituals themselves but the underlying priorities they reflected. She noted that in India, celebrations begin with an expression of gratitude, with the home regarded not merely as a new property but as the foundation for a family's future. Despite having grown up in Europe, she said she found this approach to be particularly meaningful.

Online reactions add cultural context

The post has since received more than 1.5 lakh views, with several users offering additional context on the significance of housewarming rituals across India. Some attributed the practice to religious belief, describing it as an acknowledgement of divine blessing in acquiring a home. Others highlighted sensory elements associated with the rituals, such as the fragrance of incense and ghee used during havan ceremonies.

One user described the customs as being especially elaborate in South India, citing practices such as boiling milk in a new brass vessel, homa, vastu puja and Satyanarayana vratham, along with community-specific traditions like Srinivasa and Padmavathi kalyanam. The user added that such ceremonies often begin around 4 am, with participants abstaining from food until all rituals are completed.

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