If you have been invited to be a part of Griha Pravesh or housewarming ceremony, a great deal of care must be taken to pick the right gift. Even if unintentional, a wrong choice of gifts may not only prove to be bad for the new homeowners, it can also bring bad blood between you and them. Keeping in this mind, we provide you with a Vastu and Feng Shui-approved list of gifting items that are never to be given as a housewarming gift.
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Empty wallet
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â Any gifting item that even remotely signifies emptiness is a big no in the principles of Vastu as well as Feng Shui.
Empty kitchen containers
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â As mentioned earlier, an empty container is a signifier of emptiness.
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Wall clock
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift: In Feng shui tradition, clocks indicate time running out.
Set of kitchen knives
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â Objects with sharp edges can bring bad luck to the recipient, according to Vastu and Feng Shui.
Thorny house plants
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â You want to wish the new homeowners harmony and good luck. As a gifting item, thorny plants signify something quite the contrary.
 Miniature house plants
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â Miniature plants signify restricted growth and hence considered an inappropriate gift according to Vastu.
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Artificial flowers
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â Unlike fresh flowers which denote life, growth and energy, artificial flowers are careers of bad energy.
Gifts in black colour
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â Neither Vastu nor Feng Shui recommend using this as the colour of choice when picking gifts because black signifies death and mourning.
Paintings showcasing pain and violence
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â You want to send across happy vibes. No matter how artistically superior they are, paintings depicting pain and violence are a strict non-no according to Vastu as well as Feng Shui.
Aquarium
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Why is it a bad choice as a gift:Â According to Vastu, gifting items with water signifies you passing on your luck to the receiver.
What to gift instead?
Now that we’ve covered what not to gift for a housewarming, let’s focus on thoughtful and Vastu/Feng Shui-approved alternatives that are both meaningful and auspicious. These gift ideas convey positive energy, prosperity, and good wishes for the new home and its occupants:
Brass idols of Ganesha or Buddha
Gifting brass or bronze idols of Lord Ganesha or Laughing Buddha is considered highly auspicious. Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and symbolizes fresh beginnings, while Buddha represents peace and prosperity. Ensure the idols are presented with respect and placed in a decorative box or tray.
Indoor money plants (non-thorny, upward-growing)
Money plants, jade plants, and lucky bamboo are symbols of growth, wealth, and vitality. Choose healthy, upright-growing plants and avoid any with thorns or drooping stems. These are ideal for living rooms or workspaces and align with both Vastu and Feng Shui.
Auspicious décor items
- Torans for main doors symbolize a warm welcome and positive entryway energy.
- Salt lamps purify the air and bring a calming glow to interiors.
- Metal wind chimes with five or six rods are believed to harmonize energy flow.
These items are beautiful, functional, and meaningful.
Saffron or earthy-toned soft furnishings
Gift cushion covers, throws, or table runners in shades like saffron, yellow, or beige—colours associated with warmth, optimism, and grounding. Avoid dark or black tones.
Fresh fruit basket or ceramic kitchenware
If you’re looking for something neutral yet thoughtful, a basket of seasonal fruits, dry fruits, or high-quality ceramic bowls, jugs, or platters is a great choice. These signify abundance, nourishment, and hospitality.
Housing.com POV
Housewarming gifts aren’t just ceremonial—they carry energetic intent. In a culture where homes are deeply tied to wellbeing and fortune, your gift becomes a symbolic extension of your wishes. The wrong gesture, even if unintentional, can disturb that flow. As someone who’s observed gifting patterns across many homes, I’ll say this: when in doubt, choose gifts that grow, glow, or bless. They’re not just safe—they’re timeless.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
