ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ

“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”

What is Shankh?

Shankh or conch is a religious symbol in Hinduism, which is associated with several myths, legends, traditions, and rituals. Shankh was one of the items that came out during the Samudra Manthan or churning of the oceans by the devas and asuras for gaining Amrit.

Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Garuda, the god of wealth, are closely related to the myths of Shankh. Lord Vishnu’s Shankh is known as Panchajanya.

It is described as the same for his avatars as well, including Sri Krishna, Matsya, Varaha, Narasimha, and Kurma.

In Skanda Purana, bathing Lord Vishnu’s idol with a Shankh can purify us from the sins of our seven lives.

In Varsha Purana, using Dakshinavarti Shankh for bathing can free us from our sins.

As per Sankha Sadma Purana, the pouring of water with a Shankh over our head in front of the image of Lord Vishnu is equivalent to taking a dip in the Holy Ganga river.

Apart from these, Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita have elaborated on the significance of Shankh. There are several religious and scientific reasons behind blowing or keeping a conch.

Significance of Shankh or Conch: Shankh has had a plethora of uses in the past centuries.

Their blowing in the morning indicated the beginning of the war. In the evening, they marked the end of the day’s warfare.

When they were blown away after a battle, they signified victory.

Religious Significance:

Shankh is a symbol of cosmic space, and its attribute is sound.

The blowing of a Shankh produces vibrations of OM, which can aid us in achieving transcendence. In temples, priests blow Shankh before as well as during aarathi and pooja. However, the Shankhs used in these two situations have to be different.

As per Varuna Purana, a priest can open a temple only after blowing a Shankh.

Other religious benefits include –

• The blowing of the conch removes the presence of any negative energy and evil spirit in the surrounding area.

• In temples, they are used to provide Shankha Theertam or Holy Water to the devotees.

• In Tantric rituals and meditations, mudras of Shankh play a crucial role.

• A Shankh can cleanse us of our sins and fill us with positive energy.

• Being the home of Goddess Lakshmi, a Shankh can bestow fame, prosperity, and wealth.

• Its blowing can attract Lord Vishnu’s vitality to us before we start our prayers.

• The frequency of Shankh is Sattva dominant, which means it can decrease the strength of evil forces.

Shankh plays a crucial role in Hinduism. They have a specific place in traditional rituals as well as culture.

Many keep Shankh in their houses to ward off evil forces and to improve prosperity, wealth, as well as happiness.

In Mahabharatha, apart from Lord Krishna, others also had different Shankhs in their possession. Arjuna’s Shankh is known as Devdatta; Bhima’s conch is Paundra; Yudhishthira’s Shankh is Anantavijya; Nakula’s is Sugosha.

These Shankhs are highly valued, and the different types of Shankhs that we will be discussing have a plethora of benefits in our lives.

Shankh can also aid in the spiritual awakening of a person. Its sound can take us a step forward in unifying with Ultimate Reality.

Scientific Significance:

When you place a Shankh close to your ears, you can hear a gentle humming of the ocean.

It is because of the shape of the spirals in the Shankh.

The sound from Shankh is soothing and can enhance your vitality. It has environmental benefits as well.

It aids in reducing pollution and also plays a crucial role in healing the ozone layer.

Listening to the sound produced by a Shankh can enhance the flow of positivity through your mind and body. It can create psychological vibrations that have the potential to improve your courage, willpower, and hope.

Types of Shankh:

Different types of Shankhs are auspicious in Hinduism.

They are Dakshinavarti Shankh, Vamavarti Shankh, Gaumakhi Shankh, Ganesha Shankh, Kauri Shankh, Moti Shankh, and Heera Shankh. Let us discuss in detail about these different Shankhs and their benefits.

1. Dakshinavarti Shankhs – These are open towards the south or the right hand.

As Lord Kuber resides in the south, they can aid you in garnering prosperity and wealth. They are rare and symbolize infinite space. These Shankhs are also associated with Lord Krishna and Goddess Laksmi.

Lakshmi can remove sorrow and provide us with intelligence as well as success.

The blowing of Dakshinavarti Shankh can purify the atmosphere.

2. Vamavarthi Shankhs – These are the most commonly available conches.

They have an opening towards the left, or they face the north.

They have a lot of religious purposes in Hinduism. They are known to remove negativity and create a positive field of energy instead.

3. Gaumakhi Shankhs – They are known to have the face of a cow, and using this Shankh, can provide the benefits of having a cow.

They can give peace, harmony, and happiness to your lives.

4. Ganesha Shankhs They are very precious and represent Lord Ganesha.

They can protect you from evil forces and remove different hurdles that you might encounter in your lives.

They can aid you in learning and becoming successful.

You can place these Shankhs on your home altar, place of worship, or in your locker. Always keep the Shankh on a red cloth.

They are known to increase the strength of your character and can be lucky for you.

5. Kauri Shankhs – They are very rare and can bring both prosperity as well as wealth.

During Samudra Manthan, the asuras and the devas got Kauri Shankh along with Goddess Lakshmi.

People make ornaments and currencies out of the Kauri Shankh from the ancient period.

6. Moti Shankhs – They are also known as pearl conches.

They are rare and difficult to find.

These Shankhs are as lustrous as pearls and can provide you with peace of mind.

7. Heera Shankhs – They are popularly known as Pahadi Shankh.

Devotees use them for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi to bring wealth and prosperity. They are costly and rare as well.

Shankhs are thus significant components of Hinduism.

They play a crucial role in rituals for evading negative energies and fostering positivity. Their vibrations can enhance spirituality and improve your mind-body connection.

Origin and Importance of Shankha in Hindu Dharma

The sound of the Conch Shell or Shankha is synonymous with the beginning of something important in Sanatana Dharma (Hindu Dharma) and Buddhism for it symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity and auspicious beginning.

It is considered to be a pious article and is use It is widely believed that the first use of the Shankha took place during the Samudra Manthan or churning of the ocean.

Legends have it that it was used and remained an object of benefaction during Samudra Manthan. Shankha is closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Lord Vishnu is usually portrayed holding a conch shell.

It is believed that during the Samudra Manthan, the first conch shell appeared and it was fo The God of Wealth is Lord Kubera – who is said to be in possession of eight auspicious jewels and one of them was Sankh In the epic era, the sankha remained an integral part of warfare.

And wars restricted to daytime only.

Thus the blowing of sankha during sunrise meant that war was on and again it used to be blown at dusk signifying retreat to the camps of night rest. It used to signif Hindu socio-religious ethos deeply embeds its importance of Shank.

Shankh symbolizes the cosmic space which the attribute is sabda or sound.

The resounding musical notes of sacred sankha rent the air when it is blown during the religious ceremonies, and thus the devotee’s emotions get expressed.

In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or arrival of deity and in some places, sacred water is collec While performing Lakshmi Puja, the conch shell is filled with milk and then it is poured over the idol.

Water collected in Shankha is offered while Sankha is basically an integral part of Vaishnavite symbology.

The most famous Shankha is the Panchajanya of Lord Vishnu. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas had a separate Shankha, and it is referred at the begi There are two types of Shankha – left handed conch shell and right-handed conch shell.

Valampiri Shankha or Lakshmi Shankha is the right-handed conch shell a Right-handed sankha is kept at home by many people as it is believed to bring wealth and prosperity.

It is also associated with Kubera, the god of wealth. Many institutions and organizations employ the conch shell as their symbo Shankha is also part of classical Indian musical instruments, and there is also a mudra based on it in classical dance. There are also numerous legends associated with the Shankha in the vast Hindu literature.

SHANKH

Type: SUSHIR VADYA

Shankh is a wind instrument made of a conch shell. Used in religious ceremonies, this instrument is found in Orissa. An instrument with limited musical applications, Shankh is considered to be of immense religious importance in Hinduism.

SHANKH in Orissa

Material: Conch Shell

An instrument with limited musical applications, Shankh is considered to be of immense religious importance in Hinduism. It is made up from the shell of a large predatory sea snail particularly found in the Indian Ocean. Air is blown with very high pressure through the outer hole and passes through a tiny hole inside the Shankh. The air resonates through the inner wall of the Shankh and the sound is produced when air passes through the lower opening. Associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi in Hindu mythology, it was used as a war trumpet in ancient times. It is believed that blowing of the Shankh produces sound that has the potential to destroy evil and sin. The interior design of Shankh is hollow while the inner surface is very shiny.

SHANKH in Assam

Material: Conch Shell

The Shankh or conch is a Gandharva instrument. According to an old myth, Lord Kr ishna killed the demon Shankhasura and made a conch, Panchajenya, with his skull. Lord Vishnu also used the conch as a weapon. In ancient times, conches were used as bugles in wars. The blowing of the conch marks the beginning of any auspicious occasion. It is believed that the resonating sound produced while blowing the conch drives away evil spirits.

Know Why Blowing Shankha Or Sprinkling Conch Water Is Forbidden In Shiv Puja

Benefits of Shankha: Conch shells have a huge significance in Hinduism. According to the tradition, the worship of a deity without a conch shell is considered incomplete.

Conch shells are of great importance in the worship performed in the eternal tradition as the conch shell is very dear to God Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi reside at that corner of the house where the conch shell is played.

It is said that Lord Vishnu descended as Sri Krishna in the Mahabharata period, and he had a conch shell called Panchajanya. The conch shell is believed to have been one of the 14 gems that emerged during the churning of the sea, which is why it is also known as Ratna.

Since Mother Lakshmi originated from the churning of the sea, the conch is therefore considered to be the brother of Mother Lakshmi.

There are two types of conch shells.

Clockwise conch shell
Counterclockwise conch shell

Use Of Shankha Forbidden During Shiv Puja

The deities were disturbed by the atrocities of the demon Shankhachud. Then, at the behest of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva killed him with his trident, after which his body was consumed and the conch shell originated from those ashes. That is why conch shells or their water are not used in the worship of Lord Shiva.

Significance of Shankha in Hinduism during worship

In haunted houses, playing conch shells every morning and evening after performing puja removes obstacles related to ghosts, etc.
Playing conch shells always keeps the lungs strong and removes the defects of speech. The mind remains calm.
Playing conch shells destroys microorganisms and germs.
The conch shell should always be kept filled with water at the place of worship. There is a religious belief that this maintains peace and serenity at home.
After the puja, the house becomes pure by sprinkling the conch water in the house. This eliminates negative energy in the house and increases positive energy.

Vastu tips for keeping shankh or conch shell at home

Keeping a shankh or conch shell in the house helps get rid of Vastu dosha and bring good luck and prosperity.

A shankh is considered auspicious and its sound invites peace, prosperity and luck at home. Shankh or shankham in Sanskrit, stands for shum, meaning something good, and kham, meaning water. Shankham literally means ‘the conch which holds the sacred water’.

Significance of the shankh (conch)

It is believed that deities reside in the conch. Varun Dev sits at the centre of the conch, Brahma is at the back and Ganga and Saraswati are in the front. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu, in his various avatars, blows the conch to destroy the negativity in the world. The conch is believed to have originated from the churning of the ocean or samudra manthan.

The shankh is Vishnu’s symbol and is sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas each had a conch shell.

In religious rituals, a shankh is used at the beginning of prayers or any auspicious beginning. The sound is linked with hope and the removal of obstacles. Water kept in a conch shell is sprinkled while performing pujas to cleanse and purify the space. There are two types of conches – the left-handed conch shell and the right-handed conch shell. The right-handed conch is considered auspicious and is also known as Lakshmi Shankh or Dakshinavarti Shankh.

Vastu for shankh and its sound energy

The sound of the shankh is said to purify the energies as it has healing and vibrational properties. When the conch is blown with controlled breath, the sound of Om emanates from it which helps the mind to relax. The shankh is believed to be one of the first sound-producing tools. When held close to the ear the sound of the ocean can be heard. It is believed that the one who blows the conch gets the blessings of long life and health.

Types of conch shells

Different types of shanks are named after Gods. There is the right-handed shankh of Vishnu and the left-handed shankh of Shiva. There is the Ganesh shankh, dakshinavarti shankh, vamavarti shankh, kauri shankh, gaumukhi shankh, heera shankh and moti shankh.

Dakshnivarta shankh attracts good luck and prosperity

The dakshinavarti shankh is also known as the Lakshmi shankh. Daksinavarta or dakshinavarti shankh is open on the right side that is considered the abode of the lord of wealth, Kuber. It has a closed mouth, therefore, it is only worshipped and does not emit any sound. Right-handed conch shells are auspicious and attract good luck, peace and prosperity.

Right-handed or dakshinavarti conch shells should be placed in the puja room designed in the north, the east or the northeast. A swastika should be drawn on this shankh and it should be worshipped with sandalwood, flowers and diya.

Vamavarti shankh – the blowing conch shell

Vamavarti shankh opens towards the left hand and its mouth opens in the middle. Held by the left hand, this is the most commonly available shankh and is used for all religious purposes. The blowing of a vamavarti shankh removes negative energies and purifies the surroundings. It is regarded as the brother of Goddess Lakshmi and a favourite of Lord Vishnu.

Ganesha shankha – removes obstacles

Ganesha shankh represents Lord Ganesha and is worshipped to remove obstacles and bring success, knowledge, good luck and prosperity. This shankh is considered auspicious as it gives protection from evil effects. Ganesha shankh is ideally kept in the temple at home and can be worshipped daily or during religious festivals. It can also be kept in the locker of the house wrapped in a red cloth.

Gaumukhi shankha – invites abundance and blessings

Gaumukhi shankh or panchmukhi shankh is also called the cow conch. Keeping gaumukhi shankh in the temple gives the same blessings and benefits as that of keeping a cow. The cow is considered a sacred animal and a symbol of abundance. Keeping this shankh in a temple or pooja room can give you happiness and good luck.

Kauri shankh – attracts wealth

Since ancient times kauris have been considered to bring wealth and prosperity. In ancient times it was used as a currency and was a part of the bride’s wedding attire. As per Hindu mythology, kauri was obtained from samudra manthan along with Lakshmi and other holy things. As per Hindu shastras, kauri is said to be the loving product of Mahalakshmi. It is also related to Lord Shiva and is used to decorate Nandi. Kauri shankh is kept in the cash box for prosperity and wealth.

Moti shankh – prosperity and peace

Moti shankh is as lustrous as a pearl and difficult to find. This is a precious variety of shankh and is available in all sizes. Keeping this shankh in the house is considered to be auspicious and gives good fortune, prosperity, success and peace of mind.

Heera shankh – good fortune

Heera Shankh is also called pahadi shankh (conch from the mountains). It is used in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. Heera shankh is a right-sided conch shell, available in different colours. The heera shankh bestows immense wealth, fortune and protection when kept at home.

Gomati chakra – eliminate Vastu dosha and attract good fortune

Gomati chakra, a form of shell stone, resembles the sudarshan chakra of Lord Krishna. It is used as a yantra in puja or religious ceremonies. As per Vastu, burying gomti chakra in the foundation of buildings eliminates Vastu dosha and blesses the occupants with prosperity and long life. In some regions of India, this sacred symbol is worshipped on Diwali along with Goddess Lakshmi. Gomti chakra wrapped in a cloth and kept inside a cash box activates wealth.

Vastu benefits of shankh at home

According to religious belief, the conch shell has to be placed in the temple at home on the auspicious day of Shivratri or Navratri.
Shankh attracts wealth and prosperity when kept at home.
Shankh is known to keep negative energies at bay and invite peace and positivity. To remove negative energies, sprinkle water with a conch shell all over the house.
The presence of shankh at home brings knowledge by evoking Goddess Saraswati.
In a house with Vastu defects, regularly blowing the conch nullifies the Vastu doshas.
Keep conches in the bedroom to strengthen the bond among a couple.

Placement of shankh as per Vastu in the temple at home

Always keep the conch in the temple with the pointed portion facing the idols. The shankh should be kept with its open part upwards, and the beak should be kept on its side. It is believed that the energy and the frequencies radiating from the idols come towards the pointed portion of the shankh and spread favourable energies all around the house. Vastu suggests placing shankh on the right side of the room. As per pooja room Vastu, before chanting a mantra, wash the shankh to maintain the purity of the pooja room.

Shankh as a remedy for Vastu dosha

Shankh is used to remove Vastu flaws in the house. Lord Vishnu, in his various avatars, blows the conch to destroy the negativity around the world. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides in a house with a conch shell. If there is a Vastu dosha in any part of your house, place a conch in that corner to eliminate the dosha and the bad energies. Vastu shankh yantras are placed in the northwest to rectify the flaw of the direction.

Vastu rules for shankh

Shankh that is blown during prayers should not be used to offer water to the deities.
Clean the shankh daily with holy water and cover it in white or red cloth.
The conch shell should always be kept filled with water at the place of worship.
Regularly worship the conch shells and ensure that they are blown into at least twice daily.
Do not use a shankh to offer water to Lord Shiva.
Two conches should never be kept together in a temple at home for worship.
Never keep a conch on the floor as it is equal to a deity.
Broken chipped or cracked shankh should never be kept in the mandir.
Avoid keeping thorny conches and corals as decoration pieces as they create an imbalance in a home’s healthy atmosphere.

Benefits of conch shells as per Feng Shui

In Feng Shui, seashells attract good luck when kept at home. Shells are a symbol of communication, healthy relationships and prosperity. The conch is one of the eight auspicious symbols at the feet of Lord Buddha. To protect the home from evil energy, keep shells on a window. According to Feng Shui, keeping them in the bedroom (southwest) helps couples strengthen their relationships. For a prosperous career keep seashells in the northeast of the living room. In Feng Shui, a flowing water fountain designed with shells symbolises money flowing into the house and also protects wealth.

What is a Shankhini?

A shankhini is a female shankh and a form of shell stone with a rough surface. The shankhini produces negative energies, therefore, it is not used during auspicious rituals or for blowing.

What are the benefits of the metal conch on the tortoise figurine?

Tortoise figurines help to reduce Vastu faults as it has tremendous power to balance and harmonise the environment. Tortoise also helps in enhancing career luck, longevity and health, wealth and family luck. The shankh is sacred and attracts fame, longevity and prosperity. It is the cleanser of sin and the abode of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and consort of Lord Vishnu.

Which type of shankh is good for home?

The right-handed shankh is auspicious and brings good luck, wealth and prosperity to the house.

Importance of Sankha in Hinduism

Hindu socio-religious ethos deeply embeds its importance of Shankh; symbolizes the cosmic space which the attribute is sabda. A division was made between the common conch shell, which naturally spirals to the left is known as a वामावर्ता ; and the more rare right-spiraling conch shell, which is known as a दक्षिणावर्त and is considered most auspicious for ritual use.

It is widely believed that the first use of the Shankha took place during the Samudra Manthan or churning of the ocean. Shankha is closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The God of Wealth; Lord Kubera; who is said to be in possession of eight auspicious jewels and one of them was Sankhanidhi. Shankha is believed to be a brother of Lakshmi as both of them were born from the sea. A legend describes a demon named Shankhasura (conch), who was killed by Vishnu’s Matsya Avatar.

The resounding musical notes of sacred sankha rent the air when it is blown during the religious ceremonies, and thus the devotee’s emotions get expressed. In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or arrival of deity and in some places, sacred water is collected and distributed in it. The sound of the Shankha is synonymous with the beginning of something important in Sanatana Dharma and Buddhism for it symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity, and auspicious beginning. It is considered to be a pious article and is used in all religious rituals. When the shankh is blown before the start of puja, energy is emitted from the shankh. This energy reduces the strength of distressing frequencies.

Besides a protective armour of chaitanya (divine consciousness) is formed around the articles of puja, and activated energy of Lord Vishnu in the universe gets attracted towards the place of worship, which is not only beneficial to the person who is blowing the shankh but also to all those who hear it. The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth and at the same time also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming.

According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him. During the great Mahabharata war, Krishna, as the charioteer of the Pandava prince use “Panchajanya” means ‘having control over the five classes of beings’. All five Pandavas Yudhishtira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva are described to possess shankhas named Ananta-Vijaya, Poundra-Khadga, Devadatta, Sughosha and Mani-pushpaka, respectively.

In the Ramayana epic, Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna are considered as part-incarnations of Sheshanaga, Sudarshana Chakra and Shankha, respectively, while Rama, their eldest brother, is considered as one of the ten Avatars of shri Vishnu.

Types of Shankha of Religious importance; Dakshinavarti Shankha, Vaamavarti Shankha, Ganesha Shankha, Gaumukhi Shankha, Kauri Shankha, Moti/Pearl Shankha, Heera shankha and Dakshinavarti Shankha etc.

Dakshinavarti type of shankhas come from deep seas and are very rare. The shankhas that open towards the right hand are called Dakshinavarti Shankhas. These shahkhas are rare and are available in white color with brown lines on them that run towards the right or South. Lord Kuber (God of wealth) resides in South and so this shankha represents wealth and prosperity. The sizes differ and can be from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Dakshinavarti shankha is considered very auspicious when kept at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It should be kept after being wrapped in a white cloth.

This shankha is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family. This Shankha is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that she removes sorrows and gives intelligence, success, and worldly freedom. Traditionally, a Dakshinavarti shankha is similar in its piousness from the earthly incarnation of Vishnu or Lakshmi themselves and the blessings of Lakshmi literally flow out of the remaining shell on their own. Dakshinavarti shankhas not only bring wealth but also purify the atmosphere. All the negatives energies are swept out of the place.

Vamavarti Shankha; The shankhas that open towards left hand are Vaamavarti Shankhas. These are the most commonly available shankhas and used for all religious purposes. In fact, most of the conches are Vaamvarti, that is, their bulge opens towards left side (facing North).

The special geometry of a natural shankha creates a positive energy field and so they are used as Yantras. Some astrologers also recommend the types of shankha and the location where these are to be placed to control negative planetary effects. Different methods of worshipping the shankhas are also described in the Indian scriptures for benefits varying from wealth, success and peace of mind to health, healing and hypnotism. The blowing of a Vaamavarti shankha removes the ill effects of negative energies and it purifies our surroundings and soul.

Gaumukhi Shankha; Gaumukhi means face of cow.This Shankha resembles face of Cow.Cow is considered very sacred in Hinduism and so is this shankha.Keeping this shankha in temple/pooja place gives all the benefits (punya) of keeping a cow. It helps in bringing peace, harmony and happiness.A must to have Shankha for every Altar.

Indians also use “Kauri” to decorate Nandi, the devotee of Lord Shiva. It is also said to be a great tool to save the children from devil effects. Kauri Shankha is more powerful than kauris because it is a shankha plus a Kauri. This shankha is usually kept in the cash box for financial prosperity and to protect the owner from a financial debacles. Whoever keeps a “Kauri Shankha” during the prayer of “Goddess Lakshmi”, gets blessings and gains success, prosperity, wealth and fame in life.

Moti Shankha; These shankhas shine like a pearl, very rare and difficult to find. These shankhas have the luster of a pearl and is generally round in shape. This is a precious variety of shankha and available in all big and small sizes. Keeping this shankha in house is considered to be very auspicious and it gives peace of mind. Whether a man blows any conch either small or big, it makes no difference. The influence of the conch or shankha never lessens. Everyone is aware of the fact that the right handed conch gives wealth and prosperity.

Heera Shankha is also called Pahadi Shankha ( conch from mountains ). It used in worship of Goddess Lakshmi, especially by the tantriks. It opens like the Dakshinavarti. It is found in the mountains and has sparkling crystal like substance in the opening and sometimes on the shell also. Its dull from outer crust but Its inner portion shines like diamonds.

The Shankha is included in the list of the eight Buddhist auspicious symbols, the Ashtamangala; also known as “dung kar”. A powder derived from the Shankha is used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, primarily as a cure for stomach ailments and for increasing beauty and strength. Shankha or conch shells importance was mentioned in 30th sloka of 41st adhyaaya of navama skandha of dhevi bhaagavatha puraana (9–41–30) “यत्र शंख ध्वनि नास्ति न पद्मा तत्र तिष्ठति” meaning: where there is no sound of Sankha , Goddess lakshmi (padhmaa) doesn’t stay there .

ૐ पंचजनय विद्महे पद्म गर्भाय धीमहि तन्नो संख प्रचोदयात !!

जय शङ्पाणि जय सनातन धर्म

The Symbolism of the Conch Shell

Conch shell is a significant instrument in Hinduism. The conch shell is known as the ‘Shankha’ in Sanskrit. It is a symbol of purity, brilliance and auspiciousness. In Hinduism, the sound from the conch is associated with the sacred syllable ‘Om’ which is believed to be the first sound of creation. The Shankha or conch marks the beginning of any good work. The sound of the conch is believed to the purest form of sound which ushers in freshness and new hope.

The word ‘Shankha’ literally means pacifying the inauspicious and impure. Therefore the conch shell is blown at the beginning of any religious ritual in Hinduism.

Origin Of Shankha

The Shankha or conch is believed to have originated from the churning of ocean or Samudra Manthan. There are two types of conches – the left handed conch shell and the right handed conch shell. The right handed conch is considered auspicious and is also known as Valampiri Shankha or Lakshmi Shankha.

Association Of Shankha With Hindu Deities

Shankha is usually associated with Lord Vishnu. A conch is one of the five principal weapons of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu’s conch is known as the ‘Panchjanya’ which is believed to be the most powerful among the conch shells. It is said to contain the five elements i.e water, fire, earth, sky and air. When the conch is blown, the sound emanated from it is a symbol of creation. Shankha is also associated with the God of Wealth, Kubera. The right handed conch shell is kept at home by many people because it is said to bring wealth and prosperity.

Significance Of Shankha

A Shankha or conch shell is a symbol of purity. Shankha is believed to hold the cosmic energy within itself which gets emanated when it is blown. Leaving aside the mythology part, even if you hold the Shankha near your ear, you can hear a humming sound of ocean in it. This is actually a natural vibration or cosmic energy of Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell. Ref: Boldsky, Sanchita Chowdhury

What is so special about Dakshinawarti Shankh?

Hindu Scriptures mention Shankha (Shells) as a sacred and religious object that evokes the divinity. As per the beliefs of Sanatan Dharma, the significance of a conch shell is of higher order than that of any religious objects as it is associated with Vishnu-Laxmi and other Gods and Goddesses.

Shankhas, usually come in two variants- sometimes three, namely Vamavarti, Madhyavarti and Dakshinavarti. There are further sub types to each conch shells which are associated with different Gods and Goddesses. Out of these, Vamavarti Shankh is commonly available but Dakshinavarti Shankh is very rare. Considered a rare jewel, this right handed conch shell is marked by its counter-clockwise coils. This different feature has let it earn the status and significance of a divine entity. In Skanda Purana, it has been said that bathing Vishnu with a Dkshinavarti Shankha grants the devotee freedom from the sins of seven previous births.

Even in their description of Gods and Goddesses, they are depicted holding conch shells in their hands. As per Atharva Veda, conch shells defeats one’s enemies (Shankhen Hatva Rakshansi). Keeping it at the place of worship brings wealth, good luck and prosperity to the individual and the family.

Since , Shankha is one of fourteen ratnas extracted from Samudra Manthan that came along with Goddess Laxmi, thus it is also called Laxmi Bhrata (Brother of Laxmi) which is why scriptures say that the Goddess of Wealth resides in a home where a Shankha is kept at the place of worship. Vishwamitra Samhita and Goraksha Samhita have termed Dakshinavarti Shankh as the wealth and health creator for the families. If filled with water and sprinkled around any premises, it tones down adverse planetary effects and brings peace to the ambience.

The benefits of a Dakshinavarti Shankh are abounds:

· It brings prosperity, abundance and peace.

· Filling it with water and sprinkling around premises reduces evil forces.

· As a propagator of knowledge and divinity, it is good for the enlightenment of students and professionals alike.

A wonderful divine object from the Vastu perspective, right hand conch shell is the one that connects our ordinary, mortal mind with the supreme consciousness. With the flow of energy and five elements, it channelizes the focus and churns out goodness from the chaotic world out there.

When we talk about Hindu spiritual products, it is often found that not enough care is taken to understand the requirements of customers by sellers. Rare as it is, Dakshinvarti Shankh should be bought only after being ensured of the quality that is offered.

Shankh Benefits of Shankha Types of Shankh Natural Conch

The word Shankh/ Shankha comes from the two Sanskrit words i.e. Shum which means something good and Kham means water. Therefore, Shankam is a conch/ conch shell which holds the sacred water. Shankh also known as conch shell holds immense importance in Hindu religion. According to Hindu mythology, the Shankh is a sacred emblem of the Hindu preserver Lord Vishnu. Basically Shankh is blown during the puja ceremonies. As per Hindu scriptures, Shankh is highly revered as the bestower of prosperity, fame & longevity. Conch/ Shankha is the abode of goddess Lakshmi i.e. the Goddess of wealth & the consort of Lord Vishnu.

Benefits of Blowing Shankh/ Shankha

Shaligram Shala (shaligram.org & shaligram.com) offer a wide range of Shankhs or Conch shells online at the best & affordable price. Benefits of blowing a Shankh / Conch are mentioned below-

– The sound emitted while blowing the Shankh is OM and the frequency of the divine energy is spread in the atmosphere and make the atmosphere pure.
– The Blowing sound of Shankha enhances positive psychological vibrations.
– Blowing Shankh regularly treats children who stammer & their speech is corrected in due course of time.
– Blowing Conch Shell also helps to remove the blockages in the heart and improves the respiratory system.
– Fill water in a Shankh overnight and next day massage your skin with this water. It will help in curing many skin diseases i.e. rashes, allergies etc.
– If the above process is repeated for a month it can cure white spots on the skin.
– The powder of conch shell/ Shankh is used in Ayurveda Medicines to treat menopause & stomach ailments.

Types of Shankh / Conch Shells Types

A Shankh or Shankha is primarily classified into two types which are the Right-Handed Shankh and the Left-Handed Shankh. This classification purely depends upon the spirals that form at the end of the shell and thus, the coiling of the Shankh helps to distinguish between the Right and the Left-handed Shankh. Apart from this we also offer Rare Dakshinavarti Shankh, Ganesh Shankh, Carved Shankh, Heera Shankh, Padma Shankh, White Shankh Shankha in Silver coating and much more.

Dakshinavarti Shankh or Dakshin Mukhi Shankh

The Dakshinavarti Shank is a special Shankh which coils in a counter-clockwise spiral. It is the rarest of rare variant whose ratio is one is to 2, 00,000. As per the Holy ancient scriptures, Goddess Lakshmi resides in this Shankh. Because of this many people worship Dakshinavarti Shankh. People believed that worshipping this Shankh is like worshipping Goddess Lakshmi Herself. Blowing of Dakshinavarti Shankh blesses to attract riches & abundance. Apart from Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu, Moon, Agni, Varuna & Soma gods are also associated with this Shankha/ Conch.

Vamavarta Shankh or the Left-Turned Shankh

We have a variety of Vamavarta Shankh in our collection. All these Shankh are original & authentic and you can install these in the puja altar in your home or at your office. This Vamavarta Shankh or Left-Turned Shankh and the shell coils in a clockwise spiral. It is commonly available and occurs in abundance in Nature.

Ganesha Shankh/ Ganesh Conch

Shaligram Shala has over the years acquired a rare collection of Ganesh Shankh. This variety includes small Ganesh Shankh which naturally resembles the shape of Lord Ganesha. Ganesh Shankh can be placed at the entrance of your dwelling or in the locker for positivity, abundance and warding off the evil spirits.

Vishnu Laxmi Shell/ Vishnu Lakshmi Shankh

The Vishnu Laxmi Shell/ Vishnu Lakshmi Shankh has an exotic Sudarshan Shankh which symbolises the Lord Vishnu. It set the comprises of a natural oyster shell which represents the Goddess Lakshmi. You can place this divine Shankha in the puja altar or in the cash box. This Rare Vishnu Laxmi Shankh attracts prosperity, peace & growth.

Shaligram Shala offers all the authentic and natural Shankhs. We also energise and perform puja (Pranpratistha Puja) of each of the item before shipping it. Shankha holds immense power to heal. If it is installed, it is sure to fill your life with abundance, prosperity, happiness & good health.

Importance of conch (Shankh) in Hinduism

Shankh is an integral part of Hindu socio religious ethos. Shankh symbolises the cosmic space of which the attribute is shabd or sound. The resounding musical notes of sacred shankh rent the air when it is blown during the religious ceremonies and thus the devout emotions get expressed.

Shankh is basically an integral part of Vaishnavite symbology. The practice of wearing tilaks in the shape of shankh is in vogue since the day of Ramanujan.

In legendary past we find that during Samudra Manthan it was used and remained an object of benefaction. The God of wealth in Hindu mythology is Kuber- who is said to be in possession of eight auspicious jewels and one of them was sankhanidhi.

In the epic era the shankh remained an integral part of warfare. And wars restricted to day time only. Thus the blowing of shankh during sunrise meant that war was on and again it used to be blown at dusk signifying retreat to the camps of night rest. It used to signifying victory signal as well. In Mahabharata we find that shankh had different names. The shankh of Lord Krishna was Paanchajanya. The divine shankh of Arjun was Devadutta. Yudhistra’s and Bheema’s shankh were known as Ananta Vijaya and paundra respectively. The Manipuspaka was of Sahadeva, while Sughosh was of Nakula.

As per Hinduism lore the gods and the demons churned the oceans to amrit or ambrosia. Finally Lord Dhanwantari ( the God of Ayurveda ) rose from the bottom of the ocean, and in his arms were four priceless objects- a pot of amrit, and three other by products –a Sudarshan Chakra, Conch, a leech. India is shaped like a conch.

Just before the Mahabharata war, Lord Krishna blew on his Paanchajanya shankh, striking terror in the Kaurava camp hearts. This sound went all around the world like a soliton carrier wave , using the ionosphere as a wave guide. The sound of the conch with its inherent 7.83 hertz can be heard by the ears and well as the human heart.

The human ear can hear only frequencies greater than 20 hertz. The conch can sound at the fundamental frequency 7.83 hertz of Om, the Hindu king mantra. Om opens up quantum tunneling for the wormholes to happen , where the speed of light is not the limiting factor.The innards of the conch which creates the sound is shaped by brahman, the morphogenetic consciousness field. In Advaita philosophy , the original theory of Sanatana Dharma brahman is the supreme god. The ancient Vedas written in 5000 BC tell us that the basis of all creation is the all pervading intelligent morphogenetic consciousness field.

When you blow a conch your body must be erect, as per the spirit level in the inner ear cochlea, to balance right and left brain lobes. The spiral in the inner ear also follows the Fibonacci series. Scalar waves and sound waves are longitudinal. Rest are all transverse. Spirals which follow the Golden mean and Fibonacci series can create scalar waves. Which means a conch can create scalar waves. The sound of the sea when you listen to the conch held to your ear is the sound of the Zero Point Field or Scalar Field or Brahman or Om.

The sound of the Conch Shell or Shankha is synonymous with the beginning of something important in Hindu Dharma and Buddhism for it symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity, and auspicious beginning. It is considered to be a pious article and is used in all religious rituals. Shankh symbolizes the cosmic space which the attribute is shabd or sound. The resounding musical notes of sacred shankh rent the air when it is blown during the religious ceremonies, and thus the devotee’s emotions get expressed. In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or arrival of deity and in some places, sacred water is collected and distributed in it.

Other than its spiritual and mythological significance, one should know the health benefits and what is conch good for. Many diseases like jaundice, bones, teeth, stomach issues get resolved by drinking the water kept overnight in the conch. It has Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Sulphur. The scalar sound waves that are generated by blowing the conch balance the chakras in the body. The vibrations it produces purify the air and is believed to destroy the disease-causing germs in the atmosphere. It helps to develop good lung capacity. The blowing of the Conch works on the thyroid, muscles of the neck and the vocal cords too.

I remember every evening my mom would light the dhoop and blow the conch shell. My dad explained to the five year old me, “in old days when the robbers came back to their homes, this is how the family would tell the neighbours.. we are safe. If one did not come back, there would be no sound of the shell from that house.” In 1969, I remember as a 11 year old one night, much before dawn, dad woke me up. “stop doing that” .. “I haven’t..” The bed was rocking to and fro.

Then we realized that it was an earthquake. We rushed out of the house. Ours was one of twenty tenements in a barrack type row of chawl around a large backfield. We could see the doors of the neighbours who had gathered in their respective yards. The quake lasted a few minutes. Then stopped. Then the conch shells started. From each house. One after the other. We waited outside and listened. All were found safe. Today we have telephones and mobiles. I only hear the sound of the shell occasionally, while visiting a temple, or in a festival. But for me the sound of the conch shell will always translate as one thing – “I am safe”. Cheers!

The Spiritual Significance of Conch Shell (Shankh) in Hinduism

India and Hinduism have always been places of spirituality, peace, culture and heritage. As we all know, Hinduism is the oldest surviving culture and civilisation that has enlightened people, countries and cultures and has profoundly impacted the way of living and mental understanding towards people. There are several ways to attain spirituality, be it meditation, prayers and guidance of a guru, along with several instruments involved like meditation bowls, jap mala and other devices. One of the spiritually aligned instruments is the conch shell or popularly known as a shankh has a high spiritual significance.

What is Conch Shell(Shankh)?

Shankh or conch shells are found in nature, especially in the ocean, but nowadays, they are moulded from various metals and beautifully carved to give an exemplary structure of conch shells. These shells are marine snails or Turbinella Pyrium primarily found in Indian Oceans. Turbinella Pyrium, post obtaining from the ocean, is carved, cleaned and transformed into a beautiful conch shell.

Spiritual Significance of Conch Shell

If we analyse the statue of Lord Vishnu, he is seen holding a chakra in one hand and shankha in the other. It is significant to know that Shankha has a divine and purifying aura, so it also acts as an emblem in the hands of Lord Vishnu, signifying purity and auspiciousness. Moreover, it was also used in wars as a trumpet to initiate or halt the fight.

Spiritually, Shanks are a tool associated with longevity, good luck, fame and prosperity. As per Hindu text, it creates a cleansing aura and vibe while worshipping or commencing any spiritual practice or initiation of any holy work. It is also known as a tool to ward off the negative aura.

Buddhism also gives religious importance to the conch shells as it marks the shank as the eighth symbol of Buddhism while representing the teaching of Buddha. Moreover, the sound produced by conch shells is known to awaken people from ignorance.

Jainism has also provided a special place in their culture and heritage, symbolising the sound of the world, purity of the universe and detachment of materialistic desires.

Overall, the Conch shell or Shankh has a spiritual impact on the body and surrounding cleansing aura, purifying ambience and shedding off worldly desires and negativity.

WHAT IS SHANKH (CONCH)? BENEFITS OF SHANKH (CONCH) SOUND

A Shankh (conch) is a natural cover/wrapper of an oceanic worm/creature that protect him from the out side attacks/dangers, and when the worm grows up he come out from it and he throw away it forever.

Types of Shankh (Conch)

There are a lot of more types of SHANKHA but these two are the main types of SHANKHA. SPRIPTUAL IMPORTANCE

SHANKHA is one of the 14 gems (RATNA) received from churning sea (SAMUNDRA MANTHAN.)

SHANKHA’s sound is a symbol of victory in VEDAS

SHANKHA produces the sound of OM.

Dakshinavarti Shankha (दक्षिणावर्ती शंख): The Shankha that is open from right side is known as “Dakshinavarti Shankha” Shankha …..!! It is rare, white in color and contains brown line on it.

Vamavarti Shankha (वामावर्ती शंख): It opens from left side that’s why it is called Vamavarti; it is used in all the religious activities. Astrologers recommend this SHANKHA to remove the negative energy.

श्रीमद् भगवद् गीता अध्याय-1 (15)

पाञ्चजन्यं हृषीकेशो देवदत्तं धनञ्जयः |

पौण्ड्रं दध्मौ महाशङ्खं भीमकर्मा वृकोदरः ||

श्रीकृष्ण महाराजने पाज्चजन्य नामक, अर्जुनने देवदत्त नामक और भीमसेनने पौण्ड्र नामक महाशंख बजाया ।

SHANKHA is produced from SAMUNDRA-MANTHAN and God Vishnu accepted SHANKA for his special adornment. So SHANKHA belongs to god Vishnu.

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

According to Vedic science. As far as the SHANKHA’s sound goes, it destroys the harmful micro bacteria from the atmosphere or at least makes them unconscious. (Modern science and scientists also accepted the fact)

According to ASTROLOGY science, SHANKHA’s sound destroys the negative energy from the atmosphere.

Playing SHANKHA regularly is beneficial in respiratory diseases like asthma and lever problems.

Playing SHANKHA is equal to doing PRANAYAM (yoga) that saves us from the most deadly diseases like heart attack, high blood pressure, respiratory diseases, lever related problems etc.

Offering water to sun by the Dakshinavarti Shankha protect someone from the eye disorders.

Regular use of a SHANKHA removes deafness and impediments.

A SHANKHA contains plenty of calcium, brimstone and phosphorous in it, and when we put water in a SHANKHA for a while, water becomes fragrant and sterile. That’s why this water is used in religious rituals, prayers and also sprinkled over the people.

SHANKHA water is sprinkled over the people that protect him from the skin diseases.

Put GANGA WATER in SHANKHA for the whole night and next day in the morning give it to the heart patients and the patients of diabetes to rinse with it. It will surely help.

According to VASTU SHASTRA, having a SHANKHA at home removes all the VASTU DOSH (Architectural Defects) of building. Famous Indian Scientist JAGDISH CHANDRA BOSE did a lot of experiment on SHANKHA and SHANKHA’s sound and finally he reach the conclusion that SHANKHA’s sound is special, through his experiments he proved many scientific and medical importance of SHANKHA.

What is Shankh (Conch)?

What is Shankh (Conch)?

A Shankh (conch) is a natural cover/wrapper of an oceanic worm/creature that protects him from the out side attacks/dangers, and when the worm grows up he comes out from it and he throws it away forever.

Types of Shankh (Conch) ……

1. Dakshinavarti Shankha (दक्षिणावर्ती शंख): The Shankha that is open from right side is known as “Dakshinavarti Shankha” Shankha …..!! It is rare, white in color and contains a brownish line on it.

2. Vamavarti Shankha (वामावर्ती शंख): It opens from left side that’s why it is called Vamavarti; it is used in all the religious activities. Astrologers recommend this SHANKHA to remove the negative energy.

There are a lot of more types of SHANKHA but these two are the main types of SHANKHA.

SPIRITUAL IMPORTANCE :-

SHANKHA is one of the 14 gems (RATNA) received from churning sea (SAMUNDRA MANTHAN.)

SHANKHA’s sound is a symbol of victory in VEDAS

SHANKHA produces the sound of OM.

श्रीमद् भगवद् गीता अध्याय-1 (15)

पाञ्चजन्यं हृषीकेशो देवदत्तं धनञ्जयः |

पौण्ड्रं दध्मौ महाशङ्खं भीमकर्मा वृकोदरः ||

SHANKHA is produced from SAMUNDRA-MANTHAN and Bhagwan Vishnu accepted SHANKA for his special adornment.

So SHANKHA belongs to Bhagwan Vishnu

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS:

1. According to Vedic science ….. As far as the SHANKHA’s sound goes, it destroys the harmful micro bacteria from the atmosphere or at least makes them unconscious. (Modern science and scientists also accepted the fact).

2. According to ASTROLOGY science, SHANKHA’s sound destroys the negative energy from the atmosphere.

3. Playing SHANKHA regularly is beneficial in respiratory diseases like asthma and liver problems.

4. Playing SHANKHA is equal to doing PRANAYAM (yoga) that saves us from the most deadly diseases like heart attack, high blood pressure, respiratory diseases, lever related problems etc.

5. Offering water to sun by the Dakshinavarti Shankha protects one from the eye disorders.

6. Regular use of a SHANKHA removes deafness and impediments.

7. A SHANKHA contains plenty of calcium, brimstone and phosphorous in it, and when we put water in a SHANKHA for a while, water becomes fragrant and sterile. That’s why this water is used in religious rituals, prayers and also sprinkled over the people.

8. SHANKHA water is sprinkled over the people that protects them from the skin diseases.

9. Put GANGA WATER in SHANKHA for the whole night and next day in the morning give it to the heart patients and the patients of diabetes to rinse with it. It will surely help.

10. According to VASTU SHASTRA, having a SHANKHA at home removes all the VASTU DOSH (Architectural Defects) of building.

Famous Indian Scientist JAGDISH CHANDRA BOSE did a lot of experiments on SHANKHA and SHANKHA’s sound and finally he reached the conclusion that SHANKHA’s sound is special, through his experiments he proved many scientific and medical importance of SHANKHA.

Shankha or Conch

Shankh or Conch shells possess cosmic vibrations that purify the environment, Each conch shell has a specific name from the Vishnu Sahasranamam(thousand names of Hindu deity Vishnu). Their vibrations are fixed and are used accordingly in the abhishek, ritual bathing of the deity.

According to Hindu mythology, Paanchajanya, the first Dakshinavrutha Sankham, emerged during the churning of the Ksheerasagara (ocean of milk) by the devas (gods) and asuras (demons). As it rose out of the ocean, its tremendous decibel frightened the asuras who appealed to Vishnu to save them. Lord Vishnu obliged, taking charge of the conch shell.” The primordial sound of creation, that is the Omkar or Pranavanadham, was thereby controlled. Hence forth, it became a part of Vishnu’s five weapons.

Conch shells have a significant place in Indian mythology. “Even in the great epic Mahabharata, these were given a lot of importance. Each conch shell had a specific name. Krishna’s conch shell was known as Paanchajanya, Arjuna’s Devdutta, Bhima’s Paundra, Yudhisthira’s Anantavijaya, Nakula’s Sughosa and Sahadeva’s was known asManipushpaka.”

Try holding a conch shell to your ear, the sound of the ocean humming gently can be heard. It is actually the natural vibration or cosmic energy of the earth that gets magnified on entering the conch shell. These unique whorls are directed clockwise in perfect synchronization with universal harmony. That is why a conch shell is blown during sacred rites to get rid of negative energy. The vibrations from these conch shells can dispel evil forces from the earth and also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming!”

A conch should be blown when beginning any ritualistic worship and prior to the Arti. By blowing the conch 3 times before beginning any ritualistic worship, movement of negative energies in the enviroment is reduced .This helps in reducing the obstacle of distressing vibrations and allows the flows of Sattva predominant frequencies of the Deities. This further creates a protective sheath or armour of Chaitanya around the various items used in ritualistic worship.

Any ritualistic worship is concluded by performing the Arti. During Arti, the frequenceis of the principles of Deities functional in universe are attracted to the venue of the worship in large numbers.The Raja Tama frequencies can create obsatacles to the flow of these frequencies.By blowing the conch,the raha tama frequencies disintegreate, that is why it is blown prior to an Arti.This purifies the envioment and helps in preserving the Divine consicouness generated through the ritualistic worship for a longer period.Thus we derive maximum benefit from the Sattva pedominant frequencies of Deitis attractrd to the venue of the Arti..

How to blow a Conch?

Why a person blowing the conch raise his neck?

The person blowing the conch should raise his neck upwards and fully concentrate on the divine sound of the conch. When blowing the conch, the eyes should be closed and a spiritual emotion should be nurtured that one is beckoning the subtler frequencies of the unmanifest. The posture activites the Sushmna Nadi ( Central Channel ) I te body of the conch -blower. It also heps in maintaining a perfect balance between the Raja Tama particles in the frequenciies related to the absolute air and absolute fire elements that emanates from the mouh .Thus asper requrment – the saviour and the destoyer powers of the deity get activated.

In Hindu religion, Shankh, or Samkha, is of great importance and symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity and auspicious beginning. It is a pious article and is used in all religious rituals. The most famous Shankha is the Panchajanaya of Lord Vishnu. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas had a separate conch shell and it is referred in the beginning of the Bhagavad Gita. In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or arrival of deity and in some places sacred water is collected and distributed in it.

Shankh literally means ‘pacifying the inauspicious.’

There are two types of Shankh – left handed conch shell and right handed conch shell. Dakshinavarthy Shankh or Lakshmi Shankh is the right handed conch shell and is considered very auspicious.

Shankha is blown at every festival and auspicious beginning and the sound ushers in freshness and new hope. Right handed conch shell is kept at home by many people as it is believed to bring wealth and prosperity. It is also associated with Kubera, god of wealth. Many institutions and organizations employ conch shell as their symbol.

Shankha is closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Image of Lord Vishnu always has him holding a conch shell. It is believed that during the Samdura Manthan, first conch shell appeared and it was followed by Goddess Lakshmi.

Usually, right handed conch shell is used for worship. The shell is thoroughly cleaned and is placed on a clean cloth, usually red cloth. Normal puja is performed. In some places, conch shell isplaced on a silver or clay pot. A cloth is used to cover the mouth of the pot and it is placed on it.

People usually collect and keep water in conch shell and is sprinkled while performing pujas.

While performing Lakshmi Puja, conch shell is filled with milk and then it is poured over the idol. Water collected in Shankh is offered while worshipping sun.

Shankh is also part of classical Indian musical instruments and there is also a mudra based on it in classical dance. There are also numerous legends and myths associated with the conch shell in the vast Hindu literature .

Significance of Shankh Sangu Counch

Religious Significance

In Indian mythology, the Shankh is regarded sacred and very auspicious. To initiate religious ceremonies, a shankh (conch shell) is blown. It is a major Hindu article of prayer. God Vishnu, the God of Preservation, is shown with a shankh in one hand and a disc or a chakra in the other. Each hindu shankh has a specific name. The sacred conch shell is an integral part of Hindu symbolic and religious tradition.. Whenever the conch shell is blown, it is said to purify the environment from all evil effects.

Scientific significance

Leaving aside the mythology part, the conch shell’s significance can also be corroborated by science. If you try holding a shankh near your ear, the sound of the gently humming ocean can be heard. This is actually the natural vibration or cosmic energy of the Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell.

The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth. According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him.

Types of Shankha of Religious importance

Dakshinavarti Shankh

The shankh that open towards the right hand are called #Dakshinavarti Shankh or #Valampuri Sangu. These shahkh are rare and are available in white color with brown lines on them that run towards the right or South. Lord #Kubera (God of wealth) resides in South and so this shankh represents wealth and prosperity. The sizes differ and can be from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Dakshinavarti type of shankha come from deep seas and are very rare.

Dakshinavarti shankh is considered very auspicious when kept at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It should be kept after being wrapped in a white cloth. This shankh is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family.

This Shankh is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that she removes sorrows and gives intelligence, success, and worldly freedom. Dakshinavarti shankha not only bring wealth but also purify the atmosphere. All the negatives energies are swept out of the place.

Vamavarti Shankh

The shankh that open towards left hand are #Vaamavarti Shankh. These are the most commonly available shankha and used for all religious purposes. In fact, most of the conches are Vaamvarti, that is, their bulge opens towards left side (facing North).

The special geometry of a natural shankh creates a positive energy field and so they are used as #Yantras. Some astrologers also recommend the types of shankh and the location where these are to be placed to control negative planetary effects. Different methods of worshipping the shankh are also described in the Indian scriptures for benefits varying from wealth, success and peace of mind to health, healing and hypnotism. The blowing of a Vaamavarti shankh removes the ill effects of negative energies and it purifies our surroundings and soul.

Gaumukhi Shankha

Gaumukhi means face of cow. This Shankh resembles face of Cow.Cow is considered very sacred in Hinduism and so is this shankh. Keeping this shankh in temple/pooja place gives all the benefits (punya) of keeping a cow. It helps in bringing peace, harmony and happiness. A must to have Shankh for every Altar.

Ganesha Shankha

Ganesha shankh is another precious and largely worshiped shankh. This shankha represents Lord Ganesha and is worshipped to remove obstacles, for learning, for success, for luck and prosperity to family. This shankh is considered a very auspicious item for protection from evil effects and is to get good luck and prosperity to family.

Gaumukhi Shankh – Gaumukhi Conch Shell

Gaumukhi Shankh / Cow Face Conch Shell for Blowing in puja and aarti. It is a conch shell of ritual and religious importance in Hinduism and Buddhism. This Gaumukhi Shankh ( Conch ) is also called Panch mukhi Shankh or five face Shankh. It is very rare shankh. This Shankh resembles the face of Cow. Cow is considered very sacred in Hinduism and so is Gomukhi Shankh. Keeping Gaumukhi Shankh in temple / worship place gives all the benefits ( punya ) of keeping a cow. It helps in bringing peace, harmony and happiness; must to have Shankh for every Altar.

Benefits of Gaumukhi Shankh:

Gaumukhi Shankh has utmost significance in Hindu religion.

Gaumukhi Shankh imparts sound which destroys all negative energy.

The special geometry of Gaumukhi Conch creates a positive energy and excludes pious vibes.

Gaumukhi Shankh also purifies our surroundings and soul.

Gaumukhi Shankh is scientifically proven useful product to regulate our blood circulation.

Gaumukhi Shankh brings harmony and happiness.

Gaumukhi Shankh is also helpful for reducing problems related to kidney and liver.

Gaumukhi Shankh ( Conch ) is also an essential part of Hindu tradition. Even nowadays, all Hindus use the conch or Shankh as a part of their religious practices. Whenever the Gaumukhi Shankh or Conch is blown, it is said to purify the surroundings from all evil effects.

Dimension : 25.00 x 20.00 x 17.00 cm ( L x W x H )

SIGNIFICANCE OF SHANKHA OR THE CONCH SHELLS

Shankha or the conch shells hold great significance in both Buddhism and Hinduism. It has been devoted and dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Hinduism and is also considered to be the bestower of prosperity and fame. There are two categories of Shankha one which can be blown to produce sound while another is kept in the temple simply for worshipping. It is believed that a house in which the Shankha is blown every day, it keeps the occupants of that house away from heart disease.

Different kinds of Shankha are:

Dakshinavarti Shankha
Vamavarti Shankha
Gaumukhi Shankha
Ganesha Shankha
Kauri Shankha
Moti Shankha
Heera Shankha

The importance fo Shankha in Indian mythology:

• The conch shell or the shankha is a representative of the number one hundred zillion.

• The nine treasures held by Kuber, the God of wealth, has been named as the shankh in Indian mythology

• Shankhanidhi is also the name of an attendant of Lord Kuber who holds a shankhs in his hands and is seated relaxed as a corpulent dwarf.

• Even Lord Vishnu holds the conch shell in one of his hands and is considered to be one of his weapons other than the Discus (chakra), the mace (Gadaa) and the Lotus (Padma). The name of the shankha which Lord Vishnu holds is called Panch-janya shankha.

Significance of the conch shells as per the scriptures:

As per our Hindus Puranas and the Upanishads, the conch shells originated during the time of the churning of the ocean by Lord Vishnu and the other deities. It was held in the form of a weapon by Lord Vishnu. It is also believed that the base of the shankha has the sun, moon and Varun stationed there as per the orders of Lord Vishnu. Its surface has Lord Prajapati and its front portion has all the pilgrimage places of the Hindus like the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. Yet another uniqueness of the shankha is that its vibrations, emitted when blown, destroy the diseases present in the atmosphere which are responsible for causing germs. It is because of this that shankha holds freat importance in Auyurveda and medicine a swell.

• Two shankhas should never be kept in a single temple room for worshipping

• The Shiva pindi should never be touched with a shankha during a puja ritual.

• Lord Shiva and the Sun god should never be bathed using a shankha

Shankham , Shankh (Conch)

“Shankham” comes from the two Sanskrit words “Shum” which implies something great and the “Kham” which means water. Henceforth the significance of “Shankam” is “The conch holding the holy water”.

Supposedly, the evil spirit SHankhaasura crushed devas, the Vedas, and went to the lower part of the sea. The devas engaged Lord Vishnu for help. He manifested as Matsya Avataar — the “fish manifestation” and murdered Shankhaasura. The Lord blew the conch-formed bone of his ear and head. The Om sound exuded from which arose the Vedas.

All information cherished in the Vedas is an elaboration of Om. The conch consequently is known as shankha after Shankaasuar. The conch passed up the lord is called Paanchajanya. He conveys it consistently in one of His four hands.

It addresses dharma or honesty that is one of the four objectives (purushaarthas) of life. The sound of the conch is along these lines the triumph brings of good over evil.

The Shankha verse recited in pooja is:

“Shankham chandrakadaivatwam kukshouvaruna daivatam

prusthe prajapatirdaiva mugre ganga saraswati

Pruthivyam yani teerthani vasudevasyachagyaya

Shankhe tristhanti viprendra tasmat shankham prapoojayet”

शङ्खं चन्द्रार्कदैवत्यं वारुणंचादि दैवतं |
पृष्ठे प्रजापति विद्यात् अग्रे गङ्गा सरस्वती|
त्रैलोक्ये यानि तीर्थानि वासुदेवस्य चाज्ञया |
शङ्खे तिष्ठन्ति विपेन्द्र तस्माद शङ्खं प्रपूजयेत् |
त्वं पूरा सागरोत्पन्नः विष्णुना विधृतः करे ||
निर्मितः सर्वदेवैस्तु पाञ्चजन्य नमोष्तुते |

The conch-shell is said to be the preserve of several gods and goddesses:

Brahma on the seat(Shankhapitha or Shankhadhara), Surya in the center, and Chandra at the tip. On the correct side are situated Aditya, Varuna, Soma, Vayu, and Agni. Shankha is directed by the twin divine beings Sun and Moon, and Varuna is its god at the rear of the conch-shell is Prajapati, and in front the waterway goddesses Ganga and Sarasvati. So even to take a gander at a conch-shell, or to contact it, would mean the annihilation of sins, similar to murkiness vanishing on down. The shankha is one of the four ascribes that Vishnu grasps. Subsequently, the shankha ought to be loved. As per Tantric conviction, the shankha words off detestable spirits and saves one from catastrophes.

According to Tantric belief, the Shankha keeps away evil spirits and saves one from calamities.

“Shankha Madyesthitam Thoyam Brahma Hatyadhikam Daheth

Anga Lagnam Manushyanam Mruthyi Samsara Bhesajam”

The water from the Shakha purges the delinguent and can fix every one of the afflictions which can’t be relieved by different medications. It is a solutions which can’t be relieved by different medications. It is a solution for the actual infirmities in people, from the dread of deathe and gives freedom from the interminable pattern of birth and passing. Shankha powder is utilized in a few ayurvedic prescriptions.

Types of Shankh:

Vamavati Shankha
Dakshinavarti Shankha
Ganesh Shankh
Goumukhi Shankh
Kauri SHankha
Moti Shankha
Garuda Shankh
Rahu Shankh
Ketu Shankh
Shani Shankh
Shukra Shankh
Kamdev Shankh
Panchjanya Kamdhenu Gowmukhi Shankh / Panja
Kamdhenu Shankh
Druga Kowdi
Gadha Shankh
Kuber Gadha Shankh
Maharaja Gomti Chakra
8 line austodisha shankh
7 Lines 7 Chakra Shankh
4 Lines 4 Veda Shankh
Hanuman Gadha Shankh
Surya Ganesha Shankh
Ganesh Manduk Shankh
Laxmi Narayan Shankh
Ek Dant Ganesha Shankh

and Many More Shankhs.

Why Do We Blow The Shankh/Conch

At the point when the conch is blown, the early stage sound of Om radiated. Om is favorable sound that was recited by the Lord prior to makinf the world. It addresses the world and the Truth behind it.

ANother Notable Motivation behind blowing the conch and the instruments, known generally to deliver propitious sounds is to suffocate or cover negative remarks or commotions that may upset or disturb the air or the personalties of admirers.

Shankha (Conch) Medicinal Properties & Usage in Ayurveda

It was used in warfare too by ancient Indians. Krishna’s Conch Paanchajanya, Arjun’s Conch Devdatt, Bheema’s Paundra , Yudhisthira’s Anantavijaya, Nakula’s Sughosa and Sahadeva’s Manipushpaka were extensively used in Mahabharat’s Kurukshetra war.

Warriors of ancient India used to blow conches to announce commencement of war.
Scientific Name : Turbinella pyrum
Common Name : Conch, Shankh (Hindi), Sangu (Tamil), Shankha (Sanskrit), Sankham (Telugu).
Distribution : Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Khambat, and near the Narmada river mouth.

Conch shell is a major object used in prayer by Hindus and Buddhists. It is used as a trumpet to get rid of negative energy and evil spirits.
is also blown to invoke Siva. The special relation between the conch (sankha ) and Siva is evident from the similarity between the word Sankha and the word Sankara, which is one of Siva’s many names.

The word Sankara could have been derived from Sankha-kara which means conch-blower (hankha = conch, Kara = blower).

The shankha is praised in Hindu scriptures as a giver of fame, longevity and prosperity, the cleanser of sin and the abode of Lakshmi, who is the goddess of wealth and consort of Vishnu.
It is also used as a container for holy water ( shankha teertham ). The shankha (conch shell) mudra is also used during various tantric rituals and meditation.

The sound of the conch is associated with the sacred syllable AUM, the first sound of creation. Conches that spiral clockwise are said to symbolize the expansion of infinite space. These conches belong to Lord Vishnu, the preserver god. Conches that spiral counterclockwise are said to defy the “laws of nature,” and belong to the destroyer/transformation god, Lord Siva.

A powder made from the shell material is used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, primarily as a cure for stomach ailments and for increasing beauty and strength.

Types of Shankha (Conch)

Dakshinavarti Shankha : Dakshinavarta or Dakshinavarti (“right-turned” as viewed with the aperture uppermost): This is the very rare sinistral form of the species, where the shell coils or whorls expand in a counterclockwise spiral if viewed from the apex of the shell.
Lord Kuber (God of wealth) resides in South and so this shankha represents wealth and prosperity. The sizes differ and can be from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Dakshinavarti type of shankhas come from deep seas and are very rare. They’re considered as form of Goddess Lakshmi and kept wrapped in a white cloth at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It is believed to bring good fortune to the person and his family.

Vamavarti Shankha : This is the very commonly occurring dextral form of the species, where the shell coils or whorls expand in a clockwise spiral when viewed from the apex of the shell.
The special geometry of a natural shankha creates a positive energy field and so they are used as Yantras.
Astrologers also recommend the types of shankha and the location where these are to be placed to control negative planetary effects.
Blowing of a Vaamavarti shankha removes the ill effects of negative energies and it purifies our surroundings and soul.

There are many more types of conches like Gaumukhi, Ganesha, Kauri, Moti, Heera etc.

The primordial sound of creation, that is the ‘ Omkar‘ or ‘ Pranavanadham‘ , is what emits when a conch is blowed.

Ayurvedic Usage of Shankha (Conch / Sea Shell)

Store some water in a conch overnight and next morning massage your skin with this water. This cures many skin diseases, rashes, allergies etc. It also cures ‘white spots‘ on skin if process repeated for a month.
Store water overnight as above and in morning, add ‘rose water‘ to it. Wash your hair with this mixture. Natural color of hair will restored within few days. This can be used to wash eyebrows, moustache and beard too. Hair will become smooth.
If you suffer from stomach pain, indigestion, laceration in the intestines, drink two spoons of this overnight shankha stored water.
Take equal amount of overnight shankha stored water and normal water. Mix them and wash your eyes to increase eye sight. Take this water in your palm and dip your open eye into it. Move the eyeball from left to right rapidly for few seconds and remove it. This will cure dry eyes, pus in eyes and many eye related problems.
Wrinkles on skin can be reduced by rubbing with a Conch on face and neck after bath. Glow of skin will increase naturally.
Dark Circles under eyes can be cured by gently rubbing with Conch for 5 minutes per day before sleep.
Shankha Bhasma : is an Ayurvedic medicine prepared from Conch shell and is used in treatment of gastritis, abdominal pain, malabsorption syndrome etc. It is a coolant and improves skin color and complexion.
A compound pill called Shankavati is also prepared for use in dyspepsia. In this case, the procedure followed is to mix shankha bhasma with tamarind seed ash, five salts (panchlavana), asafoetida, ammonium chloride, pepper, carui, caraway, ginger, long pepper, purified mercury and aconite in specified proportions. It is then triturated in juices of lemon and made into a pill-mass. It is prescribed for vaata (wind/air) and pitta (bile) ailments, as well as for beauty and strength.

Religious Importance of Shankha (Conch)

Shankha has tremendous religious importance among the Bengalis. Conch bangles ( Shankha porana ) made of conch shell are worn by Bengali Hindu women as ornaments at their weddings as a religious rite. During recitation of wedding hymns, the father of the bride gives her a pair of conch bangles. The groom also brings a pair for her. Hindu women wear conch bangles with utmost devotion seeking the well being of their husbands.

Even in Buddhism, the conch shell has been incorporated as one of the eight auspicious symbols, also called Ashtamangala. The right-turning white conch shell (Tibetan: དུང་གྱས་འཁྱིལ, Wylie: dung gyas ‘khyil), represents the elegant, deep, melodious, interpenetrating and pervasive sound of the Buddhadharma, which awakens disciples from the deep slumber of ignorance and urges them to accomplish their own welfare and the welfare of others.

Everything You Must Know About Shankha

The sound of the Conch Shell or Shankha plays an important role when something significant begins in Sanatana Dharma (Hindu Dharma) and Buddhism. It represents luster, brilliance, purity, and auspicious start. It is viewed as a devout article and is utilized in all religious ceremonies.

The Origin of Shankha

It is widely believed that the first use of the Shankha took place during the Samudra Manthan or churning of the ocean. Legends have it that it was used and remained an object of benefaction during Samudra Manthan. Shankha is closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Vishnu is usually portrayed holding a conch shell. It is believed that during the Samudra Manthan, the first conch shell appeared and it was followed by Goddess Lakshmi

Lord Kubera is the God of Wealth. He is the one who is believed to possess eight auspicious jewels and one of them happened to be Sankhanidhi.

In the epic time, the sankha stayed a vital part of warfare. And wars were confined to daytime. Accordingly the blowing of sankha during dawn implied that war was on and again it used to be blown at nightfall meaning retreat to the camps of night rest. It used to mean the victory signal also.

Importance of Shankh

Hindu socio-religious ethos deeply embeds its importance of Shank. Shankh symbolizes the cosmic space of which the attribute is sabda or sound. The reverberating melodic notes of sacred sankha rent the air when it is blown during the religious occasions. And hence the devotee is able to communicate his/her feelings. In religious ceremonies, Shankh is utilized to declare the start of a prayer or arrival of deity and in certain places, holy water is gathered and distributed in it.

While performing Lakshmi Puja, the conch shell is filled with milk and then it is poured over the idol. Water collected in Shankha is offered while worshipping the sun. Sankha is basically an integral part of Vaishnavite symbology. The most famous Shankha is the Panchajanya of Lord Vishnu. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas had a separate Shankha, and it is referred at the beginning of the Bhagavad Gita.

Types of Shankha

There are two kinds of Shankha – left handed conch shell and right-handed conch shell. Valampiri Shankha or Lakshmi Shankha is the right-handed conch shell and is viewed as favorable and auspicious.

Numerous individuals keep the right-handed sankha as it is believed to bring riches and prosperity to the house. It is additionally connected with Kubera, who is the god of wealth. Various establishments and associations use the conch shell as their symbol.

Musical Importance

Shankha is additionally important for classical Indian musical instruments, and there is likewise a mudra based on it in classical dance. There are also various legends related with the Shankha in the huge Sanskrit literature.

Religious & Scientific Significance of a Conch (Shankh)

The conch shell is a major Hindu article of prayer, used as a trumpet and in order to get rid of negative energy and evil spirits. It is also used as a container for holy water (shankha teertham). The shankha (conch shell) mudra is also used during various tantric rituals and meditation. “Shankha” is considered to be one of the most auspicious objects that emerged from the sea during the Ksheera Sagara Samudra Manthan.

Our Ancestors knew that when a Shankh is blown, its cosmic vibrations can cure diseases. Shankh or Shankham in sanskrit means “a conch holding the sacred water”. Earliest written documentation of Shankh can be traced back to Vedas and other Holy Hindu texts like Bhagwad Gita and Vishnu Purana. They are widely used in many Hindu rituals from bathing of a deity to the starting and ending of a holy ritual.

Religious Significance

In Hinduism, the Shankha is regarded sacred and very auspicious. To initiate religious ceremonies, a shankha (conch shell) is blown. It is a major Hindu article of prayer. God Vishnu, the God of Preservation, is shown with a shankha in one hand and a disc or a chakra in the other.

Each hindu shankha has a specific name. Vishnu’s shankha is called “Panchajanya” . It is believed that when it is blown, it announces the victory of good over evil. In the epic war, Mahabharata, the conch shell held a significant place. Arjuna’s shankha was called “Devdutta” , Bhima’s “Paundra”, Yudhisthira’s “Anantavijaya”, Nakula’s “Sughosa” and Sahadeva’s was known as “Manipushpaka”.

The sacred conch shell is an integral part of Hindu symbolic and religious tradition. Even today, all Hindus use the conch as a part of their religious practices. Whenever the conch shell is blown, it is said to purify the environment from all evil effects.

Scientific significance

The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth and at the same time also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming. According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him.

Following type of Shankhas are considered very sacred and pure in Hinduism:-

Dakshinavarti Shankha
Vamavarti Shankha
Gaumukhi Shankha
Ganesha Shankha
Kauri Shankha
Moti Shankha
Heera Shankha

The Conch Shell or the ‘Shankha’ – Emanator of Healing Vibrations

Conch shells are beautiful objects from the sea, known for their distinctive pink color. While conch pearls and shell are popular in jewellery and decorative items, the shell itself is a significant symbol in many cultures and religions. Let’s take a look at why the conch shell is considered important and what makes it unique.

What are Conch Shells?

Conches are a species of extremely large mollusc which belong to the Strombidae family. They’re considered ‘shy’ creatures since they usually come out during the night to feed and spend the day buried deep in the sand. If the lip of the conch shell is well flared, it means that the shell is fully developed. The conch uses the lip of its shell to dig itself into the seabed where it usually stays and hides. The meat of the conch is a great source of nutrition since it contains a high amount of protein and the shell is much coveted around the world. Conch shells also produce pearls, but these are extremely rare and very expensive. The surface of a conch shell is hard, shiny and translucent, rather like porcelain. The shape of the shell is oblong and similar to that of a cone, with a bulge in the middle and tapering at the ends. Just like all normal snail shells, the interior of the conch is hollow. The shiny, soft, white conch with the pointed ends is heavier than the others, and is the most desired and sought after.

History of the Conch Shell

The history of conch shells dates far back to about 65 million years ago. There’s also evidence that 3,000 years ago they were used by people as cooking pots, hooks, knives and pendants in various parts of the world. In India, the conch was first mentioned as the ‘shankha’ in the Atharvaveda (an ancient religious text) around 1000 BCE. It’s also stated in the Mahabharata that Lord Krishna blew a conch shell when announcing the start and the end of battles. After this, the conch shell became a commonly used sacred item. Conch shells was used as war trumpets and it’s still used as a trumpet to sound off in almost all Hindu rituals.

The conch is also an important feature in Buddhist culture. It’s often seen in certain rituals and marriage ceremonies not only in India but also in Pacific Island countries as well as in Southern Asia and South America.

Symbolism and Meaning

There are many interpretations of the conch shell, depending on the type of shell. Left-turning conch shells have been used by Hindus as objects of prayer and vessels to hold holy water. The right-turning conch, which are typically white in color, is sacred to the Hindus and Buddhists as it symbolizes the Dharma, the teachings of Lord Buddha. Since the conch is seen as a symbol of purity, many Hindu households have one. These are kept very carefully, usually placed on a clean, red cloth or in a clay or silver pot. Some people keep water in the conch, which is sprinkled when performing religious rituals, much like how a Catholic priest would sprinkle holy water.

Conch’s Link with Hindu Deities

According to Hindu mythology, the conch shell is a revered and sacred emblem of the Hindu god Vishnu, known as the Preserver. When blown, the sound heard from the conch shell is said to be symbolic of the sacred ‘Om’ sound and Vishnu, who’s always portrayed holding it in his right hand, is the god of sound. The shell also represents the home of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth who was also the consort of Lord Vishnu.

The Om Sound

The sound that’s heard from the conch shell is said to be symbolic of the sacred ‘Om’ sound which is believed to be the very first sound of creation. This is why the conch is blown before any ritual or ceremony since it represents good luck and marks the start of any positive or auspicious work. Even today it’s believed that when the conch shell is blown, the environment around it will be purified from all evil and good fortune will enter. Though many comprehend sound as merely something to be heard, its mechanism is a little more complex. Sound is made up of vibrations. These vibrations are produced from a source, travel through the air, and then are picked up by the ear before being interpreted by the brain, which assigns them some value. The number of vibrations per second is known as frequency. Because all matter is composed of atomic material, which is in constant motion, everything and everyone vibrates on some frequency. The word Om is defined by Hindu scripture as being the primordial sound of creation. It is the original vibration of the universe. From this first vibration, all other vibrations are able to manifest.

The Conch and Fertility

The conch shell is a symbol of water associated with female fertility since water is a symbol of fertility and the shell is aquatic. Some say that it resembles a vulva, making it an important part of Tantric rites.

In Buddhism

In Buddhism, the conch is said to be one of the 8 auspicious symbols (known as the Ashtamangala). It represents the melodious voice of the Buddha. Even today in Tibet, it’s used for religious gatherings, as a musical instrument and a container to hold holy water during rituals. Devotees believe that blowing it can enhance the positive vibrations of the mind such as hope, optimism, willpower, and courage.

Scientific Theories Involving the Conch Shell

Aside from the religious and mythological aspects of the conch shell, its significance can also be verified by science. If you try holding a conch shell to your ear, you can clearly hear the sound of the ocean waves humming gently. The sound you hear is the vibration of the Earth’s cosmic energy which is magnified once it enters the shell.

The Conch Shell in Ayurveda

The conch shell is popularly used in powder form as an ayurvedic treatment for stomach problems. This is done by soaking the conch in lime juice and heating it to extremely high temperatures in oxygen or air around 10 or 12 times, before it’s reduced to powder ash. The ash, known as ‘shankha bhasma’ in Sanskrit, contains iron, calcium and magnesium and is also said to have digestive and antacid properties.

Other Uses of the Conch Shell

Here are some of the most popular uses for conch shells in different countries.

Conch shells are used in Mayan art as paint or ink holders.

In some cultures, like in Papua New Guinea, conch shells have been used as a type of shell money to purchase goods. The Japanese use the conch as a type of trumpet in special ceremonies like royal cremations. In Grenada the conch was blown to announce to the public that fish was available for sale. As is obvious, the conch is highly popular and used all over the world for various reasons. However, it’s only in Hinduism and Buddhism that the shell is held so dearly and highly revered as a positive, religious symbol.

The Conch Shell in Jewelry

Nowadays, shell jewelry is a craft on its own and there are numerous types of jewelry made from all kinds of shells. The conch shell is one of the most popular materials used for making bracelets, bangles and other jewelry designs and is in high demand due to its natural and unique look. People wear all types of conch shell jewelry for luck, prosperity, wealth or sometimes just as a fashion trend.

Conch pearls are known for their pink color and unique patterns. They’re highly luxurious products and are often seen in big brand collections. Because conch pearls haven’t been successfully cultured, the only conch pearls on the market are those found naturally. Hence, these pearls are extremely rare and expensive.

What do conch shells mean in Buddhism and Hinduism?

The conch shell (Sanskrit shankha; Tibetan dung dkar) has survived as the original horn trumpet since time immemorial. Ancient Indian epics describe how each hero of mythical warfare carried a mighty white conch shell, which often bore a personal name. It is one of the main emblems of Vishnu, and his conch bears the name of Panchajanya, meaning ‘having control over the five classes of beings.’ Arjuna’s (hero of the Mahabharata) mighty conch was known as Devadatta, whose triumphant blast brought terror to the enemy. As a proclaiming battle horn, the conch is akin to the bugle. It is an emblem of power, authority and sovereignty whose blast is believed to banish evil spirits, avert natural disasters, and scare away poisonous creatures.

An important Buddhist symbol, conch shells are often used to call assemblies together. The white conch shell symbolizes the popularity of the Buddhist teachings spreading around the world, much like the loud sound of the conch shell. Today, in its greatly tamed avatar, the conch is used in Tibetan Buddhism to call together religious assemblies. During the actual practise of rituals, it is used both as a musical instrument and as a container for holy water.

Ancient Indian belief classifies the conch into male and female varieties. The thicker-shelled bulbous one is thought to be the male (purusha), and the thin-shelled slender conch to be the female (shankhini).

The fourfold division is also applied as follows:

The smooth white conch
The red conch
The yellow conch
The grey conch

Additionally, there is a fundamental classification of conch shells occurring in nature: those that turn to the left and those which turn to the right. Shells which spiral to the right in a clockwise direction are a rarity and are considered especially sacred. The right-spiralling movement of such a conch is believed to echo the celestial motion of the sun, moon, planets and stars across the heavens. The hair whorls on Buddha’s head spiral to the right, as do his fine body hairs, the long curl between his eyebrows (urna), and also the conch-like swirl of his navel.

Vajrayana Buddhism absorbed the conch as a symbol which fearlessly proclaimed the truth of the dharma. Among the eight symbols, it stands for the fame of the Buddha’s teaching, which spreads in all directions like the sound of the conch trumpet.

In addition to Buddha’s throat, the conch also appears as an auspicious mark on the soles, palms, limbs, breast or forehead of a divinely endowed being.

The Nagas

Because of the association of the shankha with water, nagas are often named after the shankha. The list of Nāgas in the Mahabharata, the Harivamsha and the Bhagavat Purana includes names like Shankha, Mahashankha, Shankhapala and Shankachuda. The last two are also mentioned in the Buddhist Jataka Tales and the Jimutavahana. A legend states that while using Shankha as part of meditative ritual, a sadhu blew his shankha in the forest of village Keoli and a snake crept out of it. The snake directed the sadhu that he should be worshipped as Nāga Devata (Serpent God) and since then it has been known as Shanku Naga. Similar legends are narrated at many other places in Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh.

Is a conch shell a seashell?

Yes, a conch is a type of seashell that ranges from medium to large sizes. It’s much more elaborate than most other seashells and is known for its beautiful color, large size and porcelain-like feel.

Is it ok to keep a conch shell at home?

There’s no reason not to keep a conch shell at home. Many people have them as decorative items while others keep them for religious or spiritual reasons. Right-handed conch shells are considered auspicious to have at home and are believed to bring in good fortune and wealth.

How do you blow a conch shell (shankh)?

Blowing a conch shell takes skill and practice. It can be a difficult instrument to blow. The buzzing sound made from a person’s lips gets amplified by the conch shell, much like a bugle horn.

Importance of Shankh

In Indian mythology, the Shankha is regarded sacred and very auspicious. To initiate religious ceremonies, a shankha (conch shell) is blown. It is a major Hindu article of prayer. God Vishnu, the God of Preservation, is shown with a shankha in one hand and a disc or a chakra in the other.

Each hindu shankha has a specific name. Vishnu’s shankha is called “Panchajanya” . It is believed that when it is blown, it announces the victory of good over evil. In the epic war, Mahabharata, the conch shell held a significant place. Arjuna’s shankha was called “Devdutta” , Bhima’s “Paundra”, Yudhisthira’s “Anantavijaya”, Nakula’s “Sughosa” and Sahadeva’s was known as “Manipushpaka”.

The sacred conch shell is an integral part of Hindu symbolic and religious tradition. Even today, all Hindus use the conch as a part of their religious practices. Whenever the conch shell is blown, it is said to purify the environment from all evil effects.

Scientific significance

Leaving aside the mythology part, the conch shell’s significance can also be corroborated by science. If you try holding a shankha near your ear, the sound of the gently humming ocean can be heard. This is actually the natural vibration or cosmic energy of the Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell.

The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth and at the same time also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming. According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him.

Types of Shankha of Religious importance

Dakshinavarti Shankha
Vaamavarti Shankha
Ganesha Shankha
Gaumukhi Shankha
Kauri Shankha
Moti/Pearl Shankha
Heera shankha

Dakshinavarti Shankha

The shankhas that open towards the right hand are called Dakshinavarti Shankhas. These shahkhas are rare and are available in white color with brown lines on them that run towards the right or South. Lord Kuber (God of wealth) resides in South and so this shankha represents wealth and prosperity. The sizes differ and can be from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Dakshinavarti type of shankhas come from deep seas and are very rare.

Dakshinavarti shankha is considered very auspicious when kept at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It should be kept after being wrapped in a white cloth. This shankha is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family.

This Shankha is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that she removes sorrows and gives intelligence, success, and worldly freedom. Traditionally, a Dakshinavarti shankha is similar in its piousness from the earthly incarnation of Vishnu or Lakshmi themselves and the blessings of Lakshmi literally flow out of the remaining shell on their own. Dakshinavarti shankhas not only bring wealth but also purify the atmosphere. All the negatives energies are swept out of the place.

Vamavarti Shankha

The shankhas that open towards left hand are Vaamavarti Shankhas. These are the most commonly available shankhas and used for all religious purposes. In fact, most of the conches are Vaamvarti, that is, their bulge opens towards left side (facing North).

The special geometry of a natural shankha creates a positive energy field and so they are used as Yantras. Some astrologers also recommend the types of shankha and the location where these are to be placed to control negative planetary effects. Different methods of worshipping the shankhas are also described in the Indian scriptures for benefits varying from wealth, success and peace of mind to health, healing and hypnotism.

The blowing of a Vaamavarti shankha removes the ill effects of negative energies and it purifies our surroundings and soul.

Gaumukhi Shankha

Gaumukhi means face of cow.This Shankha resembles face of Cow.Cow is considered very sacred in Hinduism and so is this shankha.Keeping this shankha in temple/pooja place gives all the benefits (punya) of keeping a cow. It helps in bringing peace, harmony and happiness.A must to have Shankha for every Altar.

Ganesha Shankha

Ganesha shankha is another precious and largely worshiped shankha. This shankha represents Lord Ganesha and is worshipped to remove obstacles, for learning, for success, for luck and prosperity to family. This shankha is considered a very auspicious item for protection from evil effects and is to get good luck and prosperity to family.

Ganesha shankha is best when kept in the Pooja Ghar (place of worship) daily or on all auspicious occasions and during religious festivals. It can also be kept in the locker of the house so that the family never faces any dearth of money. However it should be kept on red cloth in the worship room or wrapped in red cloth if kept in a locker.

Ganesha is revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Ganesha is the first to be worshipped and invoked in Vedic worship rituals. He is always worshipped for siddhi (absolute success in undertakings), and buddhi (intelligence). He is considered to be the deity of education, knowledge, wisdom and literature.

Ganesha shankha is a very rare item and hence considered very lucky. Every house should have Ganesha Shankha to protect it from evil effects, to get wealth and prosperity. It is said that Ganesha Shankha increases the strength of character, mind, enhances confidence and helps in achieving happiness, fame and good health. If Ganesha Shankha is used in daily worship, there can be no doubt that the worshipper of this conch shell is blessed with healthy and long life of nobility, wisdom, scholarship, entrepreneurship, foresight and resourcefulness. From Feng Shui’s point of view, this conch attracts business luck from overseas and augments the chances of travelling abroad.

Kauri Shankha

Kauri Shankha is a very rare shankha which when kept in your house can bring all luck and prosperity.It is said since ancient times that the possession of Kauris is considered to bring wealth and all round prosperity. That is the reason why it was a part of the marriage attire of the brides. Kauri is a rare sacred product found in the ocean. As per Hindu mythology, “Kauri” was obtained from “Samudra Manthan” along with “Lakshmi” and other rare divine and holy products. From a very ancient time “Kauri” was used as the currency and then was used in the ornaments and also used as the key of gambling. As per Hindu Shastras, “Kauri” is said to be the loving product of “Maha Lakshmi”. It is also related to Lord Shiva because the hairs of Lord Shiva are similar to “Kauri”. Indians also use “Kauri” to decorate Nandi, the devotee of Lord Shiva. It is also said to be a great tool to save the children from devil effects. Kauri Shankha is more powerful than kauris because it is a shankha plus a Kauri. This shankha is usually kept in the cash box for financial prosperity and to protect the owner from a financial debacles. Whoever keeps a “Kauri Shankha” during the prayer of “Goddess Lakshmi”, gets blessings and gains success, prosperity, wealth and fame in life.

Moti Shankha

These shankhas shine like a pearl, very rare and difficult to find. These shankhas have the luster of a pearl and is generally round in shape. This is a precious variety of shankha and available in all big and small sizes. Keeping this shankha in house is considered to be very auspicious and it gives peace of mind. This kind of shankha is very rare in the sense that studies have shown that 1 in 15,000 conchs or shankhas will produce a pearl shankha but only 1/10th of those will be a good pearl conch. Whether a man blows any conch either small or big, it makes no difference. The influence of the conch or shankha never lessens. Everyone is aware of the fact that the right handed conch gives wealth and prosperity. It is to be noted that the shankha serves its worshipper for progressing financially but it does not fulfill any human passion.

Heera Shankha

Why is shankh blown before start of puja?

Namaskar! We heartily welcome you all for this Satsang (spiritual meet)! Before we commence this Satsang let us pay obeisance at the Holy feet of Sadguru (spiritual master) so that by His grace the very objective of this Satsang is fulfilled. Please pay mental obeisance to your personal icon of faith and recite as follows:

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्‍णु गुरुर्देवो महेश्‍वर: ।
गुरु साक्षात्‌ परब्रह्म तस्‍मै श्री गुरवे नम: ।।

In the previous spiritual meets we have understood the arrangement of temple room and the importance of it from the view point of spiritual science. We have also seen the spiritual significance of various articles of puja such as kalash, lamp etc. Similarly we have also come to know the importance of ghee lamp, its effect on the worshipper, the difference between the straight and puffed wicks in Sanatan Vaidik Hindu Dharma. The science underlying the importance of copper articles in puja ritual was also explained. We hope that you must have tried to take the benefit of the spiritual science explained in these Satsang by actually putting it in practice.

In this Satsang we shall make you familiar with other articles of puja namely, ‘bell (ghanta) and conch (shankh)’ from the standpoint of spiritual science.

1. Importance of conch (shankh) as per scriptures

First of all let us see the importance of shankh. According to our ancient scriptures that is Puranas, the shankh was originated during the Churning of ocean (Samudramanthan) by the Deities and Shri Vishnu held it in the form of weapon. As per a holy verse which is regularly chanted during the puja ritual it is mentioned that by the command of Shri Vishnu the deities Moon, Sun and Varun are stationed at the base of the shankh, the deity Prajapati on its surface and all the places of pilgrimage like Ganga and Saraswati in its front portion. Yet another specialty of shankh is that the vibrations emanating on blowing it destroys the disease causing germs in the atmosphere. That is the reason it has a important place in Ayurved and medicine.

Let us see a subtle drawing which explains us the importance of shankh.

In this subtle drawing we can see that the yellow coloured circles of chaitanya are being emitted from shankh in the atmosphere. The subtle blue coloured dots depicting devotion are projected like rays in straight line. The pink circles are formed of particles of bliss (anand) and they are constantly active.

The shankh are of two types, namely, left turned shankh and right turned shankh. When the shankh is held with its spout pointed up, its spirals coil towards your right then it is right turned shankh and if the spirals coil towards your left then it is a left turned shankh. Generally a left turned shankh is preferred for the puja ritual. Now days so many Shanks of different shapes are available in the market. There are some figured works also on their surface. Thus one gets confused as to how a genuine shankh be identified? The simple test is that without blowing the shankh if you hear pleasant sound when you bring it near to your ear then it is a genuine one.

2. Blowing of shankh in puja ritual

The shankh is used in two ways in a puja ritual. One for blowing before the start of ritual and other for actual puja ritual. The shankh which is used for blowing should not be kept for puja.

Blowing of shankh has special significance in puja ritual. It has been mentioned in ‘Varaha Puran’ that one should not open the door of temple without first blowing the shankh. The left turned shankh is blown before the start of puja or performance of arti. There are three types of frequencies in the atmosphere namely sattva dominant, raja dominant and tama dominant. Among them the raja dominant and tama dominant frequencies generate distressing vibrations. The sattva dominant frequencies get attracted to the place of puja ritual but these frequencies are opposed by the raja and tama dominant frequencies so that they do not reach the place of puja and thus the flow of sattva frequencies is hindered.

When the shankh is blown before the start of puja energy is emitted from the shankh. This energy reduces the strength of distressing frequencies. Besides a protective armour of chaitanya (divine consciousness) is formed around the articles of puja.

There is another benefit too. That is when the shankh is blown the activated energy of Shri Vishnu in the universe gets attracted towards the place of worship which is not only beneficial to the person who is blowing the shankh but also to all those who hear it.

Just as the shankh is blown before the start of puja, it is also blown before an arti. The objective behind this being to sustain the deity’s chaitanya attracted to the place of puja ritual and the pure atmosphere generated because of the sattvik frequencies, for a long period.

2.1 Effect of energy emitted from blowing of shankh

Let us see how the energy is emitted from the blowing of shankh and what exactly happens with the help of a subtle drawing. Here we have to take into consideration the fact that while the vibrations of a subtle drawing are three dimensional we see them in the subtle drawing in a two dimensional form. For example the sphere will appear as a circle. Now let us look at the subtle drawing:

As soon as the shankh is blown the frequencies of divine energy (shakti) are emitted into atmosphere due to sound generated. These energy frequencies are seen in red colour. Along with these energy frequencies yellow circles of chaitanya are also projected in the atmosphere. You can also see the pink particles of Bliss being emitted in the atmosphere. This increases the proportion of shakti (energy), chaitanya and anand in the environment and that is why the negative energies get distressed and run away.

Thus it has become clear to us the importance of blowing shankh during puja ritual. The blowing of shankh makes the atmosphere holy and pure and conducive for the spiritual practice (sadhana) of the individual. Thus it becomes easier for an individual to receive maximum sattvik frequencies emanating from the deities.

2.2 Correct method of blowing shankh

We have seen that because of blowing of shankh the frequencies consisting raja–tama particles are destroyed and at the same time the saviour and destroyer principle of a deity is awakened. Now let us see the correct method of blowing the shankh.

First slightly raise your neck and bend it little backwards and keep the mind focused. Take a deep breath and start to blow with increasing intensity. One should keep in mind that blowing of shankh should be completed in one single breath. When the shankh is blown in this way Sushumna channel of the individual gets activated and it helps in keeping a correct balance of raja and sattva particles related to Tej and Vayu elements. This awakens the saviour and destroyer principle of a deity according to the need.

3. Shankhini

There is another type of shankh which is neither supposed to be blown nor kept in the puja ritual. It is called female shankh or shankhini. Its surface is rough and thorny. It does not emit pleasant sound. Let us now see why a female shankh or shankhini is not used for blowing as per the science of spirituality.

There are several crisscross circles on the inner surface of shankhani. When you blow through it these circles create obstruction in the interrupted flow of sound vibrations. The sound vibrations when generated rub against these circles thereby producing distressing frequencies. These new distressing frequencies further activate the distressing frequencies already present in the atmosphere. Both the vibrations from the shankhani and those from the negative energies present in the atmosphere get attracted towards the place of puja and make the surrounding atmosphere impure. That is the reason shankhani is not used in the usual puja ritual. However the worshippers following the Aghori Vidya (worship to accumulate black energy) use the shankhani for attracting negative energies at the start of their worship.

4. Ritualistic worship of shankh

During puja ritual the shankh is kept in a specific way. The pointed portion is directed toward the deity.

The frequencies of chaitanya and energy emanating from the images of deities get attracted to the pointed portion of shankh. You can also see the blue coloured Shri Krushna principle getting attracted towards shankh which is producing a armour of Krushnatattva around shankh. The yellow coloured chaitanya is also attracted and spreads inside the shankh. The red coloured frequencies of energy are revolving in the space of shankh in a circular fashion. The frequencies of energy and chaitanya are emitted from the other end of shankh which purifies the atmosphere and thus benefits the worshipper.

When the shankh is kept with its pointed portion towards the deity then the house gets the energy emitted from the other end in required amount. Now let us know about ritualistic worship of shankh.

A shankh is filled with water prior to actual puja of a deity and following the puja of kalash. Then it is ritualistically worshipped by offerings of sandalwood paste, flowers and Tulsi leaves. After the shankh puja the worshipper sprinkles the water filled in shankh on himself and the articles of puja. The water filled in shankh is considered as pure as water of Ganga river. It is also used for giving holy bath (abhishek) to the deities.

5. Important points to be noted while using a shankh

Now let us see some useful points about shankh

Never use shankh meant for blowing in a puja ritual. They should be different.
Never offer water to the deity by shankh used for blowing.
Do not keep two shankhs for worship in a temple room.
Never touch the Shiva pindi with shankh during a puja ritual.
Never use shankh for giving holy bath to deities Shiva and Sun.

6. The bell

In the ritual of puja deity principles are attracted at the place of worship or in the idol with the help of various methods. The deity principle is then received by the worshipper participating in the puja. The articles used in the puja ritual work as an important medium of attracting the deity principle. That is the reason these articles are worshipped first to activate the divinity in them. Bell is one such an important article.

The bell is used mainly at two places – One which we use in our temple room and the other we see in the temples. First of all let us understand about the bell we use in our temple room. Nowadays we come across articles of puja made up of various metals. They even have different artistic designs on them. As per the science of spirituality the bell should be made from either copper or brass. The carving of images of Garud or Nandi is allowed according to scriptures.

The Sound generated by the bell should be gentle and sweet. In a puja ritual the bell is used during such sub-rituals as waving Frankincense (dhoop) and Lamp as well as while performing arti for creating gentle sound. In a puja ritual what is the importance of sound and what happens on spiritual level can be understood by looking at a subtle drawing. The subtle drawing means a drawing which tells us about the subtle process which is going on at spiritual level about whatever we see with the gross eyes about an object or action.

6.1 Effect of energy emitted from the bell

Let us now see how the energy is emitted from the bell and what exactly happens with the help of a subtle drawing.

The dome shaped body of the bell and the clapper when strike with each other create circles of chaitanya which are projected in the atmosphere. The sound generated simultaneously also emits frequencies of chaitanya predominant in Akash tattva (absolute ether element). We can see them in yellow colour. The stroke of clapper emits red coloured divine energy rays. The particles of divine energy which spread in the atmosphere and are of red colour are also seen here. The divine energy and chaitanya generated by the sound of bell drives away the negative energies.

During a puja ritual as mentioned in scriptures when we do puja of bell as an initial part of puja, the bell is gently rang and following holy verse is recited,

आगमार्थंतुदेवानां गमनार्थंतुराक्षसाम्‌ ।।

The purport being, ‘I am ringing this bell to invoke Deities and to drive away demons.’

7. Difference in sound vibrations of bell and shankh

Now you must have understood the importance of bell and ringing of bell. It must also have been clear that the purport of the holy verse and the knowledge obtained through the medium of subtle drawing match with each other.

Why Is the Shankha Sacred in Hinduism? Significance of Shankha or Conch

In the following excerpt, you would get to know in detail about the sacredness, creation and journey of shankha in Hinduism. Let’s dive straight into the significance of Shankha or Conch

Mythology and Legends

In the world of Sanskrit, shankha is known as the sacred shell or conch. Similarly, in the world of Hinduism, it is a sacred and a religious object. The sound of the shankha symbolizes the divine sound of Aum.

It derives its name from the demon Shankha aura. This is the one whom Lord Vishnu had slain as matsya avatar or fish incarnation via blowing Aum into the conch-shaped bone of the asura’s ear.

The Phase Of Creation – Significance of Shankha or Conch

The Brahma Vaivarta Purana tells us about the unique and interesting creation of conches.

Once upon a time…

Lord Vishnu took a trident from Lord Shiva and flung it at the demons. This made them burn instantaneously. This led to their ashes flying over to the Ksheersagar, creating conches.

It is a belief that Shankha is a brother of Lakshmi as both of them were born from the sea. Due to the association of shankha with water, serpents or nagas are also named after it. Nagas mentioned in the Mahabharata, Harivamsha Purana and Bhagavat Purana include names like Shankha,

Mahashankha, Shankhapala and Shankhachuda. Did you ever notice this?

It’s Got Two Homes – Significance of Shankha or Conch

Brahma Vaivarta Purana declares the shankha as the abode of both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. Images of Vishnu, sitting or standing, show the Lord holding the shankha in his upper left hand. This denotes dharma or righteousness. This sacred object is closely associated with Lord Vishnu. Vishnu’s avatars, such as the matsya, kurma, varaha and narasimha are shown holding the shankha along with other symbols of Vishnu.

There are various regional forms of Vishnu like

Lord Jagannath at Puri, in Orissa
Lord Venkatesh at Balaji, in Andhra Pradesh
Lord Vithoba in Pandharpur, in Maharashtra

All of the above are also in the frame holding a shankha. Sometimes, Vishnu’s shankha is also personified as ayudha purush.

Similarly, Gaja Lakshmi idols show the goddess holding a shankha in her right hand. In the Ramayana, Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna are considered part incarnations of Sheshanaga, Sudarshana Chakra and Shankha, respectively.

Looking Back In Time

Long back, there was a war at Kurukshetra, between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Then the Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna, who eventually blew his conch. And the Panchajanya which means having control over five classes of beings. They made a decision to declare the beginning of the epic war.

At that time, all the Pandava brothers had their own shankhas.

Yudhishtira’s was called Ananta Vijaya;
Bhima’s was called Poundra Khadga;
Arjuna’s went with the name Devadatta;
Nakula’s was the term Sughosha;
Sahadeva’s was Mani Pushpaka.

Well, the shankha has different regional names. In Sanskrit, Kannada, Marathi and Hindi language, it is called, as usual, the shankha. In Gujarati, it is known as da-sukh. Likewise, the chanku in Tamil and soukham in Telugu and shaankh in Bengali.

Types of Shankhas – Significance of Shankha or Conch

A shankha, in nothing but the shell of a large predatory sea snail- Turbinella pyrum. And this is found in the Indian waters. However, in English, the shell of this species is known as the ‘sacred conch’ or even the ‘divine chank’.

Like all snail shells, the interior of this shell is hollow and very shiny. Based on the direction of coiling, shankhas have two varieties, I.e, the vamavarti and the dakshinavarti.

Vamavarti And Dakshinavarti

The vamavarti shankha is easily available and its coils or whorls expand in a clockwise spiral. On the contrary, dakshinavarti shankha is very rare. The coils or whorls of this expand counterclockwise, which is exactly opposite of the previous one. This is very rare for me of shape and is indeed auspicious and a giver of wealth. As per Hindu belief, the dakshinavarti shankha is like a rare jewel or ratna.

In the world of Hinduism, a dakshinavarti shankha symbolizes infinite space. Even if such a shankha has a defect, mounting it with gold restores its merits. The Skanda Purana also narrates that bathing Vishnu with a dakshinavarti shankha is simply wow. Because this act grants the devotee freedom from the sins of seven previous births.

According to another belief, one considers bathing a deity with the waters led through a dakshinavarti shankha equal to bathing it with all the holy water of the seven holy rivers. Yes, you heard that right! The price of such a rare shankha runs into lakhs of rupees very easily.

Significance of Shankha or Conch

In its earliest references, the shankha is spoken of like a trumpet. And it is in this form that it became an emblem of Vishnu. Simultaneously, people were using it as a votive offering and as a charm to keep away the dangers of the sea. Back then, it was the earliest known sound-producing agent.

The Shankhanad

As a trumpet or a wind instrument, one drills a hole near the tip of the apex of the shankha. When air is blown through this hole, it travels through the whorls producing a loud, sharp and shrill sound.

This particular quality of sound is the reason why shankha was put into practice as a war trumpet, to summon helpers and friends. It did not stop there. The shankha continued to be used in battles for a long time. The war sound it produced was called shankhanad.

The Giver Of Fame – Significance of Shankha or Conch

In the Hindu scriptures, one often praises the shankha as a giver of fame, longevity, prosperity and the dispeller of sins. One can trace its antiquity to the early days of Indian history. This was when it was blown to drive away evil spirits and demons.

In the ancient days, people were properly trained in blowing the conch. They had knowledge of the different notes for blowing the conch on different occasions. It was blown with a soothing note to welcome an honoured guest. Also, with a high- pitched or a shrill note to announce victory. However, the note that came from the conch during arati was quite different.

Uniqueness At Orissa – Significance of Shankha or Conch

In Orissa, there is a community wherein people can blow two conches at a time. Yes, that’s true! Ancient India was mostly amongst the villages. And each village had a principal temple and several small ones as well.

During the arati of the deity, one would blow the conch invariably, as one does it even today. Since villages were generally small, the sound of the conch would resound and echo all over the village. Those who could not make it to the temple or were not allowed in, would stop whatever they were doing for a few seconds and mentally bow to the Almighty. Thus, the sound of the conch acts as a serving to elevate people’s minds to piety even in the middle of their busy daily routine.

Finding Its Reflections In Islam

In Islam, this similar feeling and result, one can achieve it through the azan. Azan is the calling of the faithful to prayer in this religion. It is a popular belief that a person who regularly blows a conch never develops any respiratory problem. His lungs would never go for a toss.

Did you know that even listening to the sound of the conch is said to benefit those who are dumb or who stammer? Yes, you heard that right! Only via blowing the conch, one throws out the stale air present in the body. And then one replaces it with fresh, revitalizing air.

Scientist’s Findings – Significance of Shankha or Conch

The well-known scientist, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose, has also made a solid proof theory. It states that blowing the conch and ringing the bells regularly, the immediate surroundings become pure and peaceful.

The reason behind this is that its sound removes negativity from the area. That is why when we go to traditionally maintained temples, we find them serene and comforting.

Science and Significance of Shankha or Conch

Scientifically too, the blowing of conch has several benefits. It is a fact that the sun’s rays obstruct the expansion of sound. And for this reason, radio transmissions are less clear during the day than at night. Therefore, the conch is blown at holy places at about sunrise and near sunset.

When a man accurately blows the conch, two things may happen. Its sound either destroys the bacteria in the atmosphere that is harmful to humans. Or it makes them inactive. Thus, blowing the conch cleanses the surroundings.

Uses of the Shankha

Nowadays, the shankha is blown at the time of worship in Hindu temples and homes. Especially during the arati at home, when light is offered to the deities.

People also use the shankha to bathe images of deities, especially Vishnu, and for ritual purification. The shankha has several other uses as well. It is also useful as a material for making bangles, bracelets and other objects. Due to its aquatic origin and resemblance to the vulva, it has become an integral part of tantric rites. Did you ever know this fact?

Well, because of this, its symbolism is also said to represent female fertility. It is mentioned that in ancient Greece, shells, along with pearls, denoted sexual love and marriage, and also the female energy, adyashakti.

Tirtham

Remember that one does not drill any sort of a hole into shankhas. Because they are used for bathing purposes or for distributing tirtham or holy water. After a puja, priests, especially in south India, distribute tirtham to devotees through a conch. The science behind this ritual is that the conch has sulphur, phosphorus and calcium. And therefore, the water kept in such a vessel makes it medicinal.

The puja enhances its overall divinity. Hence the name of such water is tirtham. Moreover, when one sprinkles the conch water over people and objects, it disinfects them.

It’s Application In Ayurvedic Field

The shankha is also a great boon in Ayurvedic medicinal formulations. This thereby helps in treating many ailments. Conch shell ash is known in Sanskrit as shankhabhasma. When one soaks the shell in lime juice and then calcines it, the preparation begins. One should also cover it crucibles ten to twelve times, and finally, reduce it to powder.

Origin and Importance of Shankha in Hindu Dharma

The sound of the Conch Shell or Shankha is synonymous with the beginning of something important in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), and Buddhism for it symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity, and auspicious beginning. It is considered to be a pious article and is used in all religious rituals.

The Origin of Shankha

It is widely believed that the first use of the Shankha took place during the Samudra Manthan or churning of the ocean. Legends have it that it was used and remained an object of benefaction during Samudra Manthan. Shankha is closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Vishnu is usually portrayed holding a conch shell. It is believed that during the Samudra Manthan, the first conch shell appeared, and Goddess Lakshmi followed it.

The God of Wealth is Lord Kubera – who is said to have eight auspicious jewels, and one of them was Sankhanidhi.

In the epic era, the sankha remained an integral part of warfare. And wars are restricted to daytime only. Thus the blowing of sankha during sunrise meant that war was on, and again it used to be blown at dusk, signifying retreat to the camps of night rest. It is used to signify the victory signal as well.

Importance of Shankha

Hindu socio-religious ethos deeply embeds the importance of Shank. Shankh symbolizes the cosmic space of which the attribute is Sabda or sound. The resounding musical notes of sacred sankha rent the air when it is blown during the religious ceremonies, and thus the devotee’s emotions get expressed. In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or the arrival of a deity, and in some places, sacred water is collected and distributed in it.

While performing Lakshmi Puja, the conch shell is filled with milk, and then it is poured over the idol. Water collected in Shankha is offered while worshipping the sun.

Sankha is an integral part of Vaishnavite symbology. The most famous Shankha is the Panchajanya of Lord Vishnu. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas had a separate Shankha, and it is referred to at the beginning of the Bhagavad Gita.

Musical Importance of Shankha

Shankha is also part of classical Indian musical instruments, and there is also a mudra based on it in classical dance. There are also numerous legends associated with the Shankha in the vast Sanskrit literature.

Shankha in Hinduism

Brahma Vaivarta Purana

Shiva hurled his trident at the asuras, instantly incinerating them. Their ashes scattered into the sea, giving rise to conchs. It is believed that Shankha, one of these conchs, is the sibling of Lakshmi, as both emerged from the sea. Another legend narrates the demise of an asura named Shankhasura, who was slain by Vishnu in his fish avatar, Matsya.

Ramayana and Mahabharata

In the Ramayana, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna are considered partial incarnations of Sheshanaga, Sudarshana Chakra, and Shankha, respectively. Their elder brother Rama is regarded as one of the ten Avatars of Lord Vishnu.

During the great Mahabharata war, Lord Krishna resonated with the sound of the Panchajanya conch to declare the onset of battle. Not only that, each of the five Pandava brothers possessed their own Shankha. Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva owned Shankhas named Ananta-Vijaya, Poundra-Khadga, Devadatta, Sughosha, and Mani-Pushpaka, respectively.

Nagas and Shankha

There are several Nagas (serpent deities) who are named after Shankhas. Shankha, Mahashankha, Shankhapala, and Shankachuda to name a few. According to a legend, during a meditative ritual, a sadhu utilized the Shankha in the forest of Keoli village, and a snake emerged from it. The snake conveyed to the sadhu that it should be revered as Naga Devata (the Serpent God), and since then, it came to be known as Shanku Naga.

Types of Shankha

There are two types of Shankha – left-handed conch shell and right-handed conch shell. Valampiri Shankha or Lakshmi Shankha is the right-handed conch shell and is considered auspicious.

Right-handed sankha is kept at home by many people as it is believed to bring wealth and prosperity. It is also associated with Kubera, the god of wealth. Many institutions and organizations employ the conch shell as their symbol.

Hindu Gods holding Shankha

Lord Vishnu: Whether in a sitting or standing posture, often depicts Lord Vishnu and his avatars holding the Shankha in his left upper hand

Lord Jagannath: The regional form of Vishnu known as Jagannath, primarily worshipped in Odisha, is often depicted holding the Shankha.

Lord Vithoba: Another regional form of Vishnu, known as Vithoba or Vitthala, worshipped in Maharashtra, may also be pictured holding the Shankha.

Goddess Lakshmi: Gaja Lakshmi, a form of the goddess Lakshmi associated with elephants, is depicted holding the Shankha in her right hand while holding a lotus in the other hand.

Lord Surya, Lord Indra, Lord Kartikeya, and Goddess Vaishnavi all are represented holding the Shankha, signifying their authority and power.

History and Significance of Brass Pooja Shankh

The Shankh has a rich history in Hinduism and is referenced in numerous old Hindu texts, including the Vedas and the Puranas. It is said that Lord Vishnu utilized the Shankh during the beating of the sea to deliver the nectar of interminability. The Shankh is likewise connected with Lord Shiva, who is many times portrayed holding a Shankh in one of his hands.

In Hinduism, the Shankh is viewed as an image of immaculateness, propitiousness, and eternality. It is accepted to have the ability to avert negative energy and bring positive energy into a space. The Shankh is likewise said to have mending properties and is utilized in contemplation rehearses.

Design and Craftsmanship

The Brass Pooja Shankh made by Shreeyaash is a delightful and genuine portrayal of this worshipped instrument. The Shankh is made of brass, a metal that is known for its sturdiness, pliability, and protection from consumption. The utilization of brass in making the Shankh guarantees that it can endure everyday hardship and hold its excellence for quite a long time into the future.

The Shankh is roughly 5 cm long and has a width of 13 cm. The plan of the Shankh is multifaceted and itemized, with an engraved example that adds to its tasteful allure. The Shankh likewise has a delightful old fashioned finish that gives it a bona fide and immortal feel.

The craftsmanship of the Shankh is extraordinary, with consideration paid to everything about. The Shankh has a smooth surface, and the sound it produces is clear and thunderous. It is planned so that it tends to be played effectively and produces a rich and profound sound.

Significance of Brass Pooja Shankh

The Brass Pooja Shankh made by Shreeyaash isn’t simply a wonderful piece of craftsmanship yet additionally holds critical otherworldly worth. The Shankh is viewed as a hallowed instrument and is much of the time utilized in strict functions and ceremonies. It is accepted to have the ability to avert negative energy and bring positive energy into a space.

The sound of the Shankh is also said to have healing properties and is used in meditation practices. The sound produced by the Shankh is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and can help in reducing stress and anxiety.

The Shankh is also associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, and having a Shankh in one’s home or temple is considered to be auspicious. It is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and protection. The Shankh made by Shreeyaash is a perfect addition to any home or temple and serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of India.

Conclusion

The Brass Puja Shankh made by Shreeyaash is a magnum opus that joins craftsmanship, culture, and otherworldliness. The complicated plan and perfect craftsmanship make it an immortal piece that makes certain to be esteemed for quite a long time into the future. The Shankh fills in as a sign of the qualities and standards of Hinduism and is an image of virtue, promise, and godlikeness.

Product Details

Type: Religious Idol & Figurine
Material: Brass
Suitable For: Table
Dimensions: 5 cm x 5 cm x 13.2 cm
Weight: 480 gm

Shankh Mudra

What does Shankh Mudra mean?

Sanskrit for ‘Conch Shell Seal,’ Shankh Mudra is a sacred hand gesture commonly used in Hindu purification ceremonies. The mudra is symbolic of the conch shell horn, which is played to announce the opening of temple doors in the morning. Shankh Mudra removes physical and spiritual impurities, and is symbolic of shining a divine light on our inner temple. It is also used to treat any problems in the throat, to clear the airways and calm agitation in the lungs.

Follow these steps to practice Shankh Mudra:

Begin by coming to a stable sitting posture with hands in prayer position at heart centre.
Encircle the left thumb with all four fingers of the right hand.
Touch the right thumb to the middle finger of the left hand.
Keep the fingers of the left hand gently extended, so that the two hands together look like a conch shell.
Bring the hands to the sternum, just below the throat.

Yogapedia explains Shankh Mudra

This mudra can be practiced during meditation, and is particularly effective whilst chanting. It can be maintained for as long as feels comfortable, and may also be practiced in reverse using the opposite hands. The power of this mudra is increased by chanting Om continuously.

Shankh Mudra stimulates the visuddha chakra (throat), clearing any blockages to restore energetic balance. It can be used to tone the vocal cords and improve the voice, particularly in those with a stammer, stutter or speech impediment. The thumb represents the fire element, so by covering this with the fingers, this mudra can help to calm fire in the body. It is therefore useful for those experiencing fever, rashes or burning sensations.

7 Vaastu Compliant Shankhs for Your Home

Consult experts before you are buying a shankh for your home so that you can get the best shankh at the right price.

Earlier we saw that the shankh is broadly classified into two types. Here are some recommendations for Shankhas that you can keep in your home.

1. Panchajanya Shankh

Lord Krishna’s shankh from the Mahabharata is an auspicious addition to your home.

As per the Vishnu Purana, the Panchajanya shankh(alternate spelling: Pancajanya) was one of the four divine objects that were carried by Lord Vishnu. Mentions of the Shankh are even found in the Bhagavad Gita—

पाञ्चजन्यं हृषीकेशो देवदत्तं धनञ्जय: |

पौण्ड्रं दध्मौ महाशङ्खं भीमकर्मा वृकोदर: pāñchajanyaṁ hṛiṣhīkeśho devadattaṁ dhanañjayaḥ

pauṇḍraṁ dadhmau mahā-śhaṅkhaṁ bhīma-karmā vṛikodaraḥ

Translation—

“Lord Krishna blew His conch shell, called Panchajanya; Arjuna blew his, the Devadatta; and Bhima, the voracious eater and performer of extremely difficult tasks, blew his terrific conch shell called Paundram”

Lord Krishna is worshipped as the lord of all senses. The sound of this particular shankh is believed to help you clarify your senses from the bondage of Maaya(worldly illusions) and achieve moksha (liberation).

You can place the Panchajanya shankh in your home, office or Cash counter and it will protect you from delusions and give you clarity of vision.

2. Vamavarti Shankh

The Vamavarti Shankh is believed to contain the blessings and powers of Lord Shiva.

The Vamavarti shankh or the left-handed shankh has a naturally smooth texture. This shankh is commonly seen at temples and in rituals.

The resonance created by the shankh when it is blown has a calming effect on the mind and is believed to eradicate negative energies and thoughts that plague the mind and soul.

If you are trying to solve financial problems, this is the shankh for you. Keeping the vamavarti shankh in your home will amplify your efforts to remove poverty and help you resolve your financial problems faster.

The Vamavarti shankh is associated with Lord Shiva. It is believed to have the power to reverse the laws of nature.

3. Dakshinavarti Shankh

Dakshinavarti Shankha can amplify the blessings from your Puja room.

The dakshinavarti shankh or the right-handed Shankh is the favourite of the goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Durga– You can see them in the images and figurines of both of the goddesses.

You can place this shankh in the house in the southern part of the house and this will pool the energy of Goddess Lakshmi into the home. Your home can become abundant in wealth.

The Shankh will also cleanse your home of any Vaastu defects, thus making your home an abode of grace and happiness.

4. Moti Shankh

Moti shankh is believed to possess the power to turn the tides of fate for the better.

Moti Shankh (Pearl Conch/Mother of Pearl) is considered one of the 14 precious gems you can obtain from the sea. This shankh is better labelled as a shell than a conch. The pearl shell has a shiny texture and reflects light. It is advised to keep the Moti shankh in your jewel box or cash box to maximise your prosperity.

Keeping the Moti Shankh close to your bed will drain any negative energy from the room and increase the strength of your marital relationship.

5. Gaumukhi Shankh

The benefits of the Gaumukhi shankh are popular in Buddhist rituals.

The Gaumukhi Shankh (Cow-faced conch) is revered in Hindu Sanatana and Buddhist rituals and traditions. This is also known as the panchmukhi shankh(5-faced Shankh).

This rare shankh’s shape resembles that of a cow’s face. Just like how a cow is considered a sacred animal in Hindu traditions, this Shankh also has a special place.

The blessings a gaumukhi shankh will bring are comparable to the blessings you would receive if you keep a cow in your home.

6. Heera Shankh

The Heera shankh has a bright shine which carries the blessings of Devi Laxmi.

Heera Shankh (Diamond conch), also known as Pahari shankha(conch-shell-from-the-hills) has the sparkle of a diamond and hence the name. This right-handed shankh(Dakshniavarthi) collects and focuses on the blessings of Devi Mahalaxmi and Lord Vishnu.

This shankh is associated with abundance and harmony. Worship using this shankh to attain the highest level of competence in your skills and abilities. The best position to keep this shankh is in your Puja room.

7. Kauri Shankh

The kauri shankh is used in Vedic astrological rituals.

The kauri shankhas(alternate spelling: Cowrie conch) are the smallest of the shankhas and also the rarest. A clasp of kauris can be kept together to ensure positive vibes in your home.

Known just as kavadis in the southern part of India, these shankhas are used in Vedic Astrology (Kavadi-Jyotisha) to make predictions on life, progress and marital relations and even Vaastu.

The Importance of Shankh in Indian Culture

You will find the Shankh in various occasions and places—as a sacred object for rituals, as a trumpet, and as an emblem or as jewellery.

For those of us who grew up listening to the tales from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, the Shankh is popular as a trumpet used to herald the starting of a war. Heroes of Mahabharata had a dedicated Shankhas– Lord Krishna’s called the Panchajanya.

The sound of the Shankha is believed to represent the truth that hides behind Maya (worldly illusion). Blowing a Shankh is about removing obstacles and impediments between yourself and your goal.

The body of the Shankha is considered the symbol of the Hindu God Vishnu (the preserver). For the same reason, you will find it used as an insignia. You can find the Shankha representing Lord Vishnu in the state emblem of Kerala. A Sankha can be an antidote to any effects of Vastu Dosha.

If you already have a Puja Mandir in your home—with the Idol of Lord Ganesh— the Shankh placed in the vicinity of the Ganesh figurine will amplify the blessings from your mandir. A Shankha’s sound is believed to possess the power to clear away obstacles in your life.

Blowing a Shankh creates a resonance that is said to purify the energies that are present in your home. The vibrations produced are associated with healing and good sleep.

A Shankh can stabilise your interpersonal relationships. Keeping a Shankh in its positive influence can result in healthier and stronger marital bonds.

A Shankh in your home will bring the blessings of both Goddess Lakshmi (wealth, fortune and prosperity) and Goddess Saraswathi (Knowledge, wisdom and creativity).

Vaastu Tips: How to Use a Shankh and Where to Place it

Use these rituals, mantras and Vastu guidelines for getting the best results from your Shankh.

Keeping a Shankh in your home will bring the best results if you follow these guidelines for the placement and worship of the Shankh.

Shankh in the Mandir: How to Place the Shankh in Your Pooja Room

A Sankha in your puja room can amplify the blessings from the mandir.

The Shankh should be placed pointing to the Idol of the god or goddess being worshipped. This is to allow the shankha to absorb energies emanating from the deity.

If you want the shankh in your pooja room to create a maximum positive impact,

You must follow these guidelines–

For Pujas and rituals, the left-handed shankh is preferred to be used as a trumpet. The scripturesadvise blowing the left-handed shankh as it is believed to possess the power to remove inauspicious frequencies (Raja and Tama frequencies) from the air.

The Shankh in the puja room should be pointed towards the deity in the mandir.

The best way to support the shankh is on a silver base.

Keep the shankh in such a way that the opening of the shankh is pointing towards the ceiling of the mandir. Place it on the right side of the room, filled with crimson threads.

You can draw the swastika emblem on the Shankh with Sandal paste. Keep the shankh decorated with flowers and agarbattis(incense sticks).

Shankh Worship: The Best Rituals for Worshipping the Shankh

Use only the best shanks for rituals and worship in your home.

Ensure that the Shankh is clean before you place it anywhere. You may clean the iron at any auspicious time(Shubh Muhurat) on Thursdays.

For pujas,

Fill the shankh with water and worship the Kalasha (ritual pot).
Worship using tulsi leaves, sandalwood paste and flowers and
Sprinkle water inside the shankha on the audience.

The water stored inside the shankha is considered to be equivalent in purity to the waters of the holy river Ganga.

Don’t Do These 3 Things with a Shankh

Follow the best sanatanic ritual practises from shankh to ensure prosperity and well-being.

If you want to maximise the positive power of your shankh, don’t do these things with a Shankh–

Don’t use the ritual shankh for any other purpose.
Don’t touch the Shiv-ling with the shankh.
Don’t use it for bathing Surya(Sun God) or Shiva deities.

The 2 Categories of Shankha You Must Know About

Did you know that there are two types of Shankhas?

When you view a shankh from the top you will spot that it has a spiral structure. This is often called the chirality of a shankh or the handedness of a shankh.

People from the Vedic age had spotted that while some Shankhas had a clockwise(left to right)spiral, others had an anti-clockwise(right to left) spiral. Based on this the Shankh would be called either

Dakshinavarti (South/Right–turning/winding)
Vamavartha(North/Left–turning/winding)

In English, these categories are labelled as the right-handed(dextral) and the left-handed(sinistral) conch respectively.

The Right-handed Shankh (Dakshinavarti Shankh), also known as Valampuri Sankh/Valampuri Sanggu is sacred and auspicious.

Getting an Authentic Shankh for Your Home

It is always recommended that you purchase a Shankh for your home from a Vaastu expert.

One thing that you have to be careful about while buying a shankh is its authenticity. Given the advances in 3D printing and plastic moulding technology, it is easy to get scammed into buying a fake shankh.

Many reliable online retailers sell Shankh. You can buy it from one such verified seller. Alternatively, you can enquire in Vaastu, architecture and interior decor shops for the same.

Benefits of Conch Shell according to Feng-Shui

The conch shell is one of the 8 auspicious symbols of Lord Buddha. According to Fengshui, keeping a conch shell in your home can protect you from evil energy.

Keeping the conch shell in the southwestern corner of your bedroom can help make positive strides in marital relationships.

How Can NoBroker Help

Choosing the right Shankh for your home doesn’t have to be challenging. NoBroker’s Home Decor Team and Furniture team are Experts in Vaastu-compliant designs.

FAQs

1. Where can I get a shankh from?

It is recommended that you search and buy Shankhs from authentic sources. The best way is to approach a Vaastu and Interior decor expert who will be able to guide you and help you pick the right Shankh.

2. In which directions should I keep my shankh?

If you are placing your shankh in the puja room it is best to keep it pointed towards the deity. Generally, the shankh should be placed with its opening facing the ceiling. You can use flower decorations to worship the shankh.

3. How many times should I blow the Shankh?

To ensure the best practice you must blow the shankh three times, during the Aarti ritual, before you offer the light to the deity in your puja room.

4. What is Shankh bhasm?

Shankh Bhasm or the ashes of a shankh is used in ayurvedic practices as an antacid–to relieve acidity in the stomach.

The ashes of the shankh have an alkaline property that can neutralise stomach acids. Perhaps this is why shankh bhasm serves as an antidote to gas and bloating.

5.What is shankh Naad?

Shankh Naad (Conch-sound) is the Sanskrit word for the resonance produced by a shankh when it is blown. The Shankh naad has multiple meanings across Indian culture.

It is used similarly to a herald which initiates the war, in Mahabharata. It is also believed to remove any physical or metaphysical obstacles between you and your dreams.

What Is The Importance Of Conch (Shankh) In Hinduism?

What would you do if you came across a conch shell or Shankh out of nowhere? We bet you would place it in your drawing room as home decor. But what if we say that this simple-looking thing holds a lot of importance in Hindu mythology? Right from the period of Samudra Manthan to Mahabharata, Shankh has been an integral part of Hindu culture and traditions.

You would be shocked to discover the health, spiritual and financial benefits of Shankh sound. Well, it is no less than a magical instrument that attracts wealth, good luck and fortune. So, what are you waiting for? Let us look at the benefits and importance of Shankh, a magical instrument as per Hindu mythology.

Significance of Shankha in Hindu Mythology

As we have said, you would hardly find an Indian household that does not worship this magical conch shell. But what’s so special about this Shankh that even the gods could not help but admire its beauty? The word ‘Shankha’ has been derived from the Sanskrit language, which means the purification of the negative and inauspicious things. Just because of this magical instrument’s positive energies and atmosphere, people blow conch shells before beginning a good work. Now you know the reason why every Indian household places and worships a conch shell.

It will not be wrong to say that a shankh is your direct access to the divine or Almighty. Yes, you read that right. The below-mentioned shloka from Devi Bhaagvata Purana mentions that where there is no sound of a conch shell, even the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Goddess Lakshmi, does not want to stay there.

Yathra Sankha Dhvanir Naasthi

Na Padhmaa Thathra Thishtathi

And if you are still unsure about the significance of a shankh in Hindu mythology, let this shloka from Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 1 (1:15) fade all your doubts. This shloka mentions when Lord Krishna’s shankh name, ‘Panchajanaya,” blew his conch shell, Arjun Shankh name, and Bhima blew theirs, ‘Devadatta’ and ‘Poundram’, the sound was enough to shake the Kauravas in fear.

Panchajanayam Hrisikeso Devadattam Dhananjayah

Poundram Dadhmau Maha-Sankham Bhima-Karma Vrukodharaha

But let us share another interesting fact related to the importance of Shankh in Hindu mythology. Do you know that Lord Krishna’s conch name ‘Panchjanaya’, used to blow a shankh to announce the start and the end of the battle of Mahabharata?

Types of Shankh in Hindu Mythology

According to Hindu mythology, there are basically two types of Shankh: one is the right-handed Shankh of Lord Vishnu, and the other one is the left-handed Shankh of Lord Shiva. However, there is another different category of Shankh named after Hindu Gods. So, let us look at the different types of Shankh and their magical benefits.

Types of Shankh

Used in the Worship of Which Hindu God Known for

Ganesha Shankh Lord Ganesha Remove Obstacles and Challenges

Moti Shankh Goddess Lakshmi Peace and Harmony

Heera Shankh Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu Good Fortune

Kauri Shankh Lord Shiva Attracts Wealth and Prosperity

Gaumukhi Shankh Gau Mata Open Doors to Financial Abundance

Vamavarti Shankh Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi Removes Negative and Evil Energies

Dakshnivarta Shankh Lord Kuber Good Luck and Prosperity

Gomati Shankh Goddess Lakshmi Removes Vastu Dosha

Exploring the Surprising Shankh Benefits

Imagine there is no spark or romance in your married life or relationships. All you do is fight and argue with each other. This is where the solution to this problem takes centre stage: conch shell. As per popular belief, keeping a small conch shell in your bedroom would not only open doors to positivity and peace but also strengthen your relationship with your partner or spouse.
Are you the one facing financial difficulties one by one? No matter how hard you work, these financial problems do not seem to end. If this is the case, then try bringing the best Shankh for home. It is believed that keeping a conch shell gets you the blessings of Lord Kuber and Goddess Lakshmi.
Not only this, but the left hand shankh benefits would balance all the energies as well as remove the Vastu Dosha from your home.
Here comes the most surprising Shankh blowing benefits. If a person blows a shankh regularly, his lung muscles are believed to expand, eventually enhancing his aerial capacity. Along with this, it works on the vocal cords, removing the stammering issues of a person, if any.

Essential Vastu Tips for Keeping the Shankh At Home

After reading about the benefits and importance of Shankh, you couldn’t help but bright a Shankh at home. Right? But are you aware of the important factors such as right positioning or placement? Don’t worry; we have penned some essential but easy Vastu tips to enhance its positive energy at your home.

The first tip is to never place two conch shells together in your temple or home. Vastu Shastra believes a temple must not contain two conch shells as their combined energies attract bad luck and negative energies into the house.
If you have recently purchased a beautiful decorative conch shell for home decor, despite having a conch shell at your temple, you need to pay special attention. This Vastu tip asks you not to bring any decorative items made of conch shells. Doing this would simply imbalance the energies the conch shell brings into your house.
One more thing you should take care of is never to place a conch shell on the floor or ground. Placing a conch shell on the floor is considered disrespectful in Hindu mythology since it is given equal respect as a deity. This is why you should always place a conch shell at a high place in your home or temple.
If you don’t want to make your home a source of all the negative and evil energies, avoid keeping broken or damaged conch shells. If it gets damaged or broken, replace it with a new one to avoid uninvited problems.
Last but not least is the most important Vastu tip for keeping a conch shell at home. It says that the face of a shankh should always be towards the inside of the house. This specific positioning would bring a positive and peaceful atmosphere to your home.

Conclusion:

And that’s a wrap on our blog on ‘Importance of Shankh in Hinduism’. Now you know how important a conch shell is in Hindu mythology. Right from giving you direct access to success and happiness to protecting you from negative energies around you, the conch shell seems more powerful and magical than it appears. So, bring a conch shell home and prepare to make some space for joy, peace and harmony in your lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do you call Shankh in English?

A Shankh in English is known as a ‘conch shell’. Along with the scientific and spiritual significance, a conch shell or Shakh is famous for its religious significance. There are several types of Shankha, such as Ganesh Shankh, Dakshinavarti Shankha, Vamavarti Shankh, Gaumukhi Shankh, Lakshmi Shankha, Heera Shankh and so on.

2. What is the meaning of Shank in Hinduism?

The word ‘Shankh’ has been derived from the Sanskrit language, which means ‘Shankh holding sacred water’. Moreover, in Hindu mythology, a conch shell or Shankh signifies sound.

3. Is keeping Shankh at home good or bad?

Yes, keeping Shankh at home is extremely good, as per Hindu mythology. Keeping the conch shell or Shankh at home opens doors to fortune and good luck. Moreover, conch shells protect you from all sorts of negative and evil energies present around you.

4. What are the benefits of Shankh sound?

Along with the spiritual benefits, there are scientific benefits of Shankh sound. It is believed that using shankh or conch shells not only improves someone’s aerial capacity but also expands lung muscles. Other than that, using conch shells is said to be beneficial for the urinary bladder.

5. Which Shankh is good for home?

Of all the other Shankh types, Ganesha Shankh is said to be the best for home. This is because keeping Ganesh Shakh in your home attracts fame, success and respect. Along with this, Lord Ganesha, being the god of wisdom and knowledge, blesses an individual with intelligence and encourages them to make wise financial decisions.

6. According to hindu mythology which was lord Vishnu’s conch?

In Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu shankh name, aka Shankh, is known as ‘Panchajanya’. Moreover, Lord Vishnu’s conch shell, Pachajanya, symbolises ‘knowledge and wisdom’. Interestingly, there is also a female version of this conch shell of Lord Vishnu known as ‘Shankini’.

Shankh

Obtained from the Turbinella Pyrum sea-snail found in the Indian Ocean, the shankh (Sanskrit for “conch”) is a smooth, white bulbous shell which, when blown into, produces a sound similar to a trumpet.

In Hinduism, its sound is believed to be auspicious and certain ceremonial rituals are begun with the blowing of the shankh to ward off evil forces.

In Tibet, the shankh is known as dung dkar and takes the form of a musical instrument with a small metallic cap fitted at the apex as a mouthpiece. The dung dkar is often embellished with ornate metallic work.

A culturally significant object, the shankh is seen widely throughout Odisha, West Bengal and other parts of eastern India. It is a recurring motif in textiles such as bichitrapuri sarees, the pattachitra and ikat prints of Odisha, and the kantha embroidery of West Bengal. Carved conch shells are also used in a number of Bengali crafts, including the shakha pola bangles that are traditionally worn by newly-married Bengali women.

Within Hindu iconography, the shankh is attributed to the god Vishnu who holds it along with a chakra (wheel), gada (mace) and padma (lotus). It is also believed to be the abode of his consort, the goddess Lakshmi. As a symbol of prosperity in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology, the shankh appears next to the god of wealth, Kubera, in the form of the Shankanidhi. The Shankanidhi, accompanied by the Padmanidhi, also appears in the rock-cut sculptures and wall paintings of the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra.

In Buddhism, the right-spiralling shankh is one of the eight auspicious symbols, or ashtamangala, which represent dharma. In Chinese and Tibetan Buddhism, these eight symbols are believed to make up the body of the Buddha, with the conch symbolising his throat through which his teachings could spread in all directions. The right-spiralling shankh is also believed to mimic the motion of the cosmos, including the movements of the sun, moon and the stars.

Several varieties of the shankh (carved, metallic, decorated and plain) – from different time periods in India, Tibet, Madagascar and other regions – are on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA. The shankh continues to feature in sculptures alongside deities in Hindu and Buddhist temples across the world.

Different Types Of Shankh And Its Importance

A conch or Shankh is deeply rooted in Hinduism. It is believed that the sound of sacred Om, which is known to be the first sound of creation, is associated with the sound of the conch. It is a pious article and is used in all religious rituals.

Shankh and its Importance

In religious rituals, Shankh is used to announce the beginning of a prayer or arrival of deity. In some places, sacred water is collected and distributed in it. Shankha is blown during every festival and auspicious beginning and the sound ushers in freshness and new hope. People usually collect and keep water in the conch shell, which is sprinkled while performing pujas.

While performing Lakshmi Puja, the conch shell is filled with milk, and then it is poured over the idol. Water collected in Shankh is offered while worshipping the sun. The resounding musical notes of sacred shankh rent the air when it is blown during religious ceremonies, and thus the devout emotions get expressed.

Shankh is also part of classical Indian musical instruments, and there is also a mudra based on it in classical dance. The blowing of shankh makes the atmosphere holy and pure and conducive for spiritual practice. Thus it becomes easier for an individual to receive maximum sattvik frequencies emanating from the deities.

Know about Indian Mythology and Shankh

There are numerous legends associated with the conch shell in the vast Hindu literature. One such legend goes as follows:

Devaraja Indra had to suffer due to the curse of Durvasa Rishi, while Daityaraj Bali had captured the three worlds. Bali created havoc all around. To find a solution against Bali, all the deities approached Lord Vishnu. He advised all the Gods to go for Samudra Manthan. Then, the demons and the Gods together churned the ocean with a desire to get Amrit.

There were fourteen gems that came out with Samudra Manthan. Conch Shell was one of them. This conch was dedicated to Lord Vishnu. That is why conch is essentially played in Lakshmi-Vishnu Puja.

Lord Vishnu’s conch was named Panchajanya Shankh. It is the most powerful of all the shankhs. Panchajanya Shankh brings prosperity, harmony, wealth and material attainments. Vishnu’s idol is incomplete without this conch along with the Sudarshan Chakra and Lotus flower.

What are the types of Shankh?

There are different types of shankh named after Gods. There are also Right Handed, which is the shankh of Vishnu and Left-Handed shankh, which is the shankh of Shiva. Based on the names of Gods, there is Ganesh Shankh,Dakshinavarti Shankh,Vamavarti Shankh,Kauri Shankh,Gaumukhi Shankh,Shankhini,Heera Shankh and Moti Shankh.

Some other Conchs are:

Panchjanya — the conch shell of Lord Sri Krishna.
Anantavijaya — name of King Yudhisthira’s conch shell
Paundra — the terrific conchshell of Bhima.
Devadatta — the conch of Arjuna
Manipuspaka — name of Sahadeva’s conch-shell
Sughosa — the conch shell of Nakula

Other than its spiritual and mythological significance, one should know the health benefits and what is conch good for.

Many diseases like jaundice, bones, teeth, stomach issues get resolved by drinking the water kept overnight in the conch. It has Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Sulphur. The scalar sound waves that are generated by blowing the conch balance the chakras in the body.

The vibrations it produces purify the air and is believed to destroy the disease-causing germs in the atmosphere. It helps to develop good lung capacity. The blowing of the Conch works on the thyroid, muscles of the neck and the vocal cords too. What is Shankh (Conch)?

Types of Shankh (Conch)

There are a lot of more types of SHANKHA but these two are the main types of SHANKHA.

SPIRITUAL IMPORTANCE :-

SHANKHA is one of the 14 gems (RATNA) received from churning sea (SAMUNDRA MANTHAN.)

SHANKHA’s sound is a symbol of victory in VEDAS

SHANKHA produces the sound of OM.

श्रीमद् भगवद् गीता अध्याय-1 (15)

पाञ्चजन्यं हृषीकेशो देवदत्तं धनञ्जयः |

पौण्ड्रं दध्मौ महाशङ्खं भीमकर्मा वृकोदरः ||

SHANKHA is produced from SAMUNDRA-MANTHAN and Bhagwan Vishnu accepted SHANKA for his special adornment. So SHANKHA belongs to Bhagwan Vishnu

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS:

2. According to ASTROLOGY science, SHANKHA’s sound destroys the negative energy from the atmosphere.

3. Playing SHANKHA regularly is beneficial in respiratory diseases like

asthma and liver problems.

4. Playing SHANKHA is equal to doing PRANAYAM (yoga) that saves us from the most deadly diseases like heart attack, high blood pressure, respiratory diseases, lever related problems etc.

5. Offering water to sun by the Dakshinavarti Shankha protects one from the eye disorders.

6. Regular use of a SHANKHA removes deafness and impediments.

8. SHANKHA water is sprinkled over the people that protects them from the skin diseases.

9. Put GANGA WATER in SHANKHA for the whole night and next day in the morning give it to the heart patients and the patients of diabetes to rinse with it. It will surely help.

10. According to VASTU SHASTRA, having a SHANKHA at home removes all the VASTU DOSH (Architectural Defects) of building.

Type: SUSHIR VADYA

SHANKH in Orissa

Material: Conch Shell

SHANKH in Assam

Material: Conch Shell

Heera Shankh

Heera Shankh is an auspicious and natural dakshinavarti shankha. It is very effective in attracting Wealth Goddess. Its also known as Pahadi Shankha. It takes the devotee to Laxmi Siddhi and bestows him with immense wealth, fortune and protection. These are found in the mountains and has sparkling crystal like substance in the opening and sometimes on the shell also. Its dull from outer crust but its inner portion shines like diamonds. It is rare to found, but with very high energies.

Benefits of Dakshinvarti Hira Shankh

o Prosperity to the house, shop or office.

o Improve sale in business or shops

o No shortage of food, money or clothes.

o Brings peace to the premises.

o If kept in the bedroom, it brings harmony among the couple.

o If kept during a religious gathering, it brings knowledge by evoking Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswati and Parvati.

o Enlightens the students with knowledge and sharpens their memory.

o Fill it with Ganges water and sprinkle it on a person or in a premises. Malefic planetery effects and black magic evils disappear.

o Removes ill-effects of Brahmhatya, Gau-hatya and Bal-hatya (Dosha due to killing of a priest, cow or a child in the previous births).

Story behind Heera Shankh

According to ancient scriptures , Long back old poor lady named Heera-ujawala used to stay in a village at North East India, earlier River Ganges used to flow there. She was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Once there was an epidemic that spread in the village and the villagers were dying. Her two sons and their wives too came in the grip of that epidemic and caught the disease.

To save the lives of her sons, daughters in law and the rest of the inmates of the village and bring the prosperity again in the village She was told in her dream to do fasting and worship of Laxmi Narayan. Since she was an ardent devotee and was doing very severe penance to please Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi, Lord Vishnu appeared and promised her that very soon the village will be free from all epidemic and all affected village inmates will soon be blessed with good health. But to bring prosperity she was advised to worship Dakshinavarty Laxmi Shankh as Goddess Laxmi can be pleased easily with the worship of Dakshinavarty Shankh.

With the blessing of Lord Vishnu very soon the village was free from diseases. Heeraujawala continued her penance to please Goddess Laxmi. While she was performing the penance, it is said that very heavy rains started and the water from the ocean started overflowing and one strong wave of ocean unlit the ‘Agni Jwala'(the fire which was lit to undertake the yajna) and destroyed the complete place and taken away all ‘Ahutis’ and donations like fruits, utensils etc. along with the wave itself to the ocean.

This made the Heera-ujawala very sad and in the rage of anger she cursed that the place used immediately be relieved of ocean and become plain. That place has number of water species especially there was a high concentration of Dakshinavarti Shankhs and suddenly when the water receded, these species remained there and could not go back to the ocean.

Since the species was endangered, Lord Varuna (the God of ocean) pleaded Goddess Laxmi to save the species. Goddess immediately appeared where the Heera-ujawala was performing the penence and requested her to take the curse back. Heera-ujwala told Laxmi that now her Shankh has become stone how can she continue her penance.

Goddess promised the lady that hence forth all the worshipper of Dakshinavarti Shankhs will be blessed with immense fortune but they will be now available in very less number since most of them have changed into stones Shankhs. She further given a boon that all the stone Shankhs will be glittering with gems and precious stones. All the Shankhs which had turned into stones were named as Heera Shankhs.

The worship of Dakshinavrti Shankhs will blessed immense fortune and luck if the japa of the Goddess Laxmi mantra will be done using the sphatik mala. They will be most beautiful Shankhs that can happen by virtue of presence of diffent coloured gems and precious stones and can take the devotee to the Laxmi Siddhi. It is highly recommended to keep them in the puja room or Altar.

Sadhana Or Puja Procedure Of Hira Shankh

One should take a bath and wear clean clothes. Sit on a mat or cloth facing east. Cover a wooden seat with yellow cloth .Take a steel plate and draw a Swastik with Vermillon and place the Mahalakshmi yantra and shankha on plate. Offer vermilion, Milk, Ghee, Sugar, Curd, Honey, Rice grains, flower petals on the Shankh.

1. Lite the lamp and incense.
2. Take water in the right palm and pledge – I (speak your name) am doing this Sadhana for the removal of these problems in my life (specify the problems) and may Goddess Lakshmi bestow success upon me.
3. Let the water flow to the floor.
4. Offer prayers to Lord Ganpati by chanting “ Om Maha Gam Ganpataye Namah ” eleven times.
5. Pray to your Guru or Lord Shiva (thinking of him as your Guru) for Success in the Sadhana.
6. Then Chant the mantra 108 times

Mantras for Heera Shankh

“Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Kamle Kamlalye Praseed Praseed Shreem Hreem Shreem Om Shrimahalakshmye Namah”.
“Om Hreem Shreem Kleem Mahalakshmi Mam Grehay Aagachay Aagachay Hreem Namah “.

Then offer flowers and rice grains to the Goddess Lakshmi and pray to her to manifest and bless you. Perform the arti of Goddess . Let the rosary and Shankh remain in worship place. Next day Keep Shankha in cash box/locker/ Almirah or place it in altar. Whenever in the future you face financial problem chant one mala of the Mantra. Astroshastra provide only natural and original Heera Shankh.

Heera Shankh

Heera Shankh is a natural, right sided conch shell glittering with many different colors. It is very beautiful and is totally filled with many different kinds of gems with a dull appearance from the outer side.

Keeping a Heera Shankh at the worship place at home is said to seek the blessings of Devi Mahalaxmi and Lord Vishnu. A person doing sadhana using this shankh is said to attain highest level of siddhis.

Benefits of Heera Shankh :

If kept in the bedroom, it brings harmony among the couple

It gives prosperity to the house, shop or office.

Worship of this Shankh attracts prosperity and abundance.

Heera shankh or Pahadi Shankh is a fossilized right side conch after millions of year and are embedded with beautiful gems and diamond like colored stones.. The average life of a Heera Shankh is approximately 10,000 years or more.

Heera Shankha is an auspicious and natural shankha found in mountains and has sparkling crystal like substance in the opening and sometimes on the shell as well. It has a dull look on the outer crust while its inner portion shines like diamonds.

According to ancient scriptures, long ago, a poor old lady named Heera-Ujawala used to stay in a village at North East India, earlier River Ganges used to flow there. She was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi.

Once there was an epidemic that spread in the village. Heera-Ujwala’s two sons and their wives too became a victim of the epidemic. She wanted to save the lives of her sons, daughters-in-law and the rest of the inmates of the village and bring the prosperity again in the village. In her sleep, she dreamt that she needs to do fasting and worship of Laxmi Narayan. Since she was an ardent devotee and was doing very severe penance to please Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi, Lord Vishnu appeared and promised her that very soon the village will be free from all epidemic and all affected village inmates will soon be blessed with good health. But to bring prosperity she was advised to worship Dakshinavarty Laxmi Shankh as Goddess Laxmi can be pleased easily with the worship of Dakshinavarty Shankh. With the blessing of Lord Vishnu very soon the village was free from diseases. Heeraujawala continued her penance to please Goddess Laxmi. While she was performing the penance, it is said that very heavy rains started and the water from the ocean started overflowing and one strong wave of ocean unlit the ‘Agni Jwala'(the fire which was lit to undertake the yajna) and destroyed the complete place and taken away all ‘Ahutis’ and donations like fruits, utensils etc. along with the wave itself to the ocean. This made the Heera-ujawala very sad and in the rage of anger she cursed that the place used immediately be relieved of ocean and become plain. That place has number of water species especially there was a high concentration of Dakshinavarti Shankhs and suddenly when the water receded, these species remained there and could not go back to the ocean. Since the species was endangered, Lord Varuna (the God of ocean) pleaded Goddess Laxmi to save the species. Goddess Laxmi immediately appeared where the Heera-ujawala was performing the penence and requested her to take the curse back. Heera-ujwala told Laxmi that now her Shankh has become stone how can she continue her penance. Goddess Laxmi promised the lady that hence forth all the worshipper of Dakshinavarti Shankhs will be blessed with immense fortune but they will be now available in very less number since most of them have changed into stones Shankhs. Goddess Laxmi further given a boon that all the stone Shankhs will be glittering with gems and precious stones. All the Shankhs which had turned into stones were named as Heera Shankhs.

The worshipper of Heera Shankhs will be blessed with immense fortune and luck if the japa of the Goddess Laxmi mantra will be done using the sphatik mala.. It is highly recommended to keep Heera Shankhs in the puja room or altar.

Heera Shankh / Dakshinavarti Shankh

Heera Shankh is incredibly wonderful and completely full of precious stones and pearls of yellow, dark-coloured, white, and several other colours. This Dakshinavarti Heera Shankh is well-shaped and glittering with different colours. Blowing a Heera Shankh takes you to Laxmi Siddhi and gives immense wealth, fortune and protection. Scroll below to know more about the Hira Shankh / Pahadi Dakshinavarti Shankh i.e. History of Heera Shankh, Benefits of Blowing Heera Shankh, Puja Procedure of Dakshinavarti Shankh and much more.

Hira Shankha/ Heera Shankhs are most beautiful Shankhs that can occur on the Earth, by virtue of the presence of various shaded gems and crystals and can take the worshipper to the Laxmi Siddhi. It is recommended to keep the Heera Shankhs in the puja room or Altar. Heera Shankha is additionally called Pahadi Shankha (conch from mountains). It is found in the mountains and has shimmering gem-like substance in the opening and in some cases on the shell moreover.

Its dull from external outside layer yet Its internal part sparkles like diamonds. Here is one increasingly old Tibetan content available which expresses that Guru Matsyendranath was as famous as Gorakhnath in the field of Tantra. It is said that with regards to the most significant level of Sadhanas Guru Matsyendranath was much more cultivated than Guru Gorakhnath. He had achieved a very secret Sadhana related to Goddess Lakshmi using Heera Shankh.

Story Behind Heera Shankh/ History of Hira Shankha

A beautiful story exists behind the Heera Shankha / Pahadi Heera Shankha. Thousands of years ago a poor old lady named Heera-Ujwala lived in a village of North East (India). That time Ganga River flows from there and falls in the ocean. The lady Heera-Ujwala was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu & Goddess Laxmi. Once an epidemic spread in her area and the people began passing on in high numbers. Her two children and their spouses also came in the grasp of that epidemic and caught the disease. To save the lives of her children, daughters in law and others of that village and bring the prosperity again in the village, she was advised in her dream to do penance, fasting & worship of Laxmi Narayan.

Since she was a true devotee, she decided immediately to do severe penance to please the Lord Vishnu & Goddess Laxmi. During her severe penance without eating anything, in front of the fire (Yajna), Lord Vishnu appeared and guaranteed her that the village will be free from all plague and all affected village inmates will soon be blessed with good health. But to bring prosperity she has to worship Dakshinavarty Laxmi Shankh so that Goddess Laxmi can be satisfied easily. Very soon the village was free from all the diseases with the blessings of Lord Vishnu. But the lady Heera-Ujwala continued her penance to please the Goddess Laxmi.

Consequently, the rest of the Dakshinavarty Shanks alongside their bugs inside too in the ocean came close to the big shankh where Heera-Ujwala was doing her penance. While she was performing the worship, it is said that very heavy rain began and because of the heavy storm water from the sea began flooding all around. A strong wave of the ocean came where Heera-Ujwala was doing her penance and dark the Agni Jwala (the fire which was lit while performing the yajna) and destroyed the complete place and removed all Ahutis and gifts like fruits, utensils etc along with the wave itself to the sea.

This incident makes that lady Heera-Ujawala extremely miserable and in the fierceness of anger, she cursed that the spot will be immediately be relieved of the ocean and become plain. That place had the number of water species particularly there was a high grouping of Dakshinavarti Shankhs since all these Shankhs have moved to that spot and all of a sudden when the water receded, these species remained there and could not return to the sea.

And every Shanks and different species ended up fossilized Shankhs like stones including the big Dakshinavarty Shankh of Heera-Ujwala. Since the species was endangered, Lord Varuna (the God of the sea) pleaded Goddess Laxmi to spare the species. Goddess Laxmi immediately appeared where the Heera-Ujawala was performing the worship and ask her respectfully to take the curse back. She told to Goddess Laxmi that now her Shankh has additionally ended up like a stone how might she continue her penance.

Goddess Laxmi guaranteed Heera-Ujwala that henceforth all the worshipper of these Stone (Heera) Shankhs will be blessed with an immense fortune. Since the quantity of Dakshivavarty Shankhs has incredibly reduced the impact of Stone Shankhs will be comparable to the Dakshinavarty Shankhs. Since the majority of the Dakshinavarty Shankhs got changed over into Stone Shankhs the Dakshinavarty Shankh has become very very rare. Thus all the Shankhs which had turned into stones were named as Heera Shankhs.

Heera Shankh Benefits / Dakshinavarti Shankh Benefits

-Worship of Heera Shankh / Dakshinavarti Shankh attracts prosperity & abundance.
-It is used in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, especially by the Tantriks.
-The worshippers of Heera Shankha is blessed with immense fortune & luck.
-Blowing a Heera Shankh takes you to Laxmi Siddhi and gives immense wealth, fortune and protection.

Heera Shankh Puja / Worship Guidelines of Heera Shankh

-First of all, have a bath and wear clean Dhoti.
-Now sit on the floor without any mat facing the North.
-Place a Heera Shankh in front of you.
-With a Sphatik rosary chant 31 rounds of the following Mantra. Ayeim Yam Ram Shreem Yam Froum Kreem Phat.
-This mantra is a very powerful Mantra made of Beej Mantra and it is really very effective and each Sadhak must try to make the best use of it.
-Heera Shankh is a very rare Shankh used in the worship of Goddess Lakshmi.
-Individuals doing Sadhana using this Shankh and Sphatik rosary can attain the highest level of Siddhis.

Moti Shankh

Moti conch is considered a very rare species of conch. According to Tantra Shastra, this conch is very miraculous. It is very beautiful in appearance. It is called Moti Shankh because of its lustrous luster like a pearl.

Just as worship conch is considered as Vishnu and Dakshinavarti conch is considered as Lakshmi, similarly Moti conch is considered as a symbol of good luck Lakshmi.

Fill water in a copper utensil and place it in the middle of a copper vessel in the north-east corner of the house or Brahmasthal to destroy domestic discord and increase positive energy in the house.

If Moti Shankh is installed in the factory in Guru Pushya Yoga, then there is rapid economic progress in the factory.

Lakshmi is pleased if a pearl conch filled with water is kept with the picture of Lakshmi.

What is the Importance of Moti Shankh in Our Life ?

Buy Original moti shankh at best price. It is found in the region where pearl is found. Abhimantrit Moti Shankh brings name and fame to you. Keeping moti shankh in house is considered to be auspicious. Moti shankh always remove ominous effect of the Moon and gives peace of mind. Moti shankh has the luster of a pearl and is generally round and conical in shape. Scientifically this conch is known as Trochus. Moti Shankh also known as Moti conch. It’s very Important spiritual item. Moti Shankh serves its worshipper for progressing financially. This Moti Conch enhances your destiny and shall help you to attract business and benefits from overseas connections. The ancient text brahma vaivarta purana contains deep knowledge related to the different forms of Goddess Laxmi. In it, it is described that Saubhagya Laxmi who brings good luck is present in Moti Shankh.

How to Identify Real Moti Shankh ?

To identify moti shankh check the luster of a pearl and is generally round and conical in shape. Moti shankh shine like a pearl, very rare and difficult to find. These shankhas have the luster of a pearl and is generally round in shape. This is a precious variety of shankha and available in all big and small sizes

Top 8 Benefit of Moti Shankh:

The person who performs Puja daily by keeping the abhimantrit moti shankh on a silver pedestal to get Moti Shankh Benefit, removes the lunar malefic effects from his horoscope.
Keeping the moti shankh on Monday in the evening on white cloth in the temple of the house increases wealth.
Keep moti shankh in water for one hour to decrease skin related diseases.
If Abhimantrit Moti Shankh is filled with water and kept with the idol of Goddess Lakshmi, then poverty starts to go away from home.
Having a Abhimantrit moti shankh in a shop or an office gives you lots of amazing benefits in business.
By keeping the moti shankh in silver in the northeast side of the house, negative energy is removed from the house and positive energy flows in the house.
Fill the original moti shankh with rice and tie it with white cloth and keep it in the vault of the house, then the vault is never empty, four times the amount of money starts coming.
Keeping the Abhimantrit moti shankh in the silver bowl in the northeast of the kitchen, the renewable store of grain is always full in the house. Massage the face with water in the Siddha Moti Shankh at night and in the morning, this removes all skin related disorders and makes the face glow, fair and attractive.

Best Day & Worshipping Method of Moti Shankh:-

Start this Sadhana from a Sunday. Early in the morning have a bath and wear fresh clothes. Place before yourself a Moti Shankh. Offer vermilion on it. Light a ghee lamp and with a rosary chant 108 times the Mantra. Do this regularly for 30 days. It shall take hardly ten to fifteen minutes daily and you shall surely attain success provided you have full faith.

Moti Shankh

Please allow our expert team to select a Moti Shankh from our inventory. The selected Shankh would be of relatively the same quality as shown in the sample photographs. You can alternatively can decide to browse through our collection of catalogue in our website with photos to select a Shankh of your own choice.

Benefits

This shankh removes all type of poorness.
This shankh increases business also.
This circular shape of shankh contains lots of significance.

Moti Shankh Benefits

Original Moti Shanh / Gopuram Shankh

Moti means pearl. A conch shell that shines like a pearl. Moti Shankh is a very important Sadhana article in India because it is rare and difficult to find. It has the lustre of a pearl and is generally round in shape, although the size might differ. It is a unique gift of nature that is available to all human beings. It has been considered the symbol of the moon, in astrology, the moon is called Lakshmi, where it is a pearl conch, there can never be a shortage of wealth.

It will take a huge text to list all the benefits that can be had from this shell. But the most wonderful thing about it is that it hides in it the powers of Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and riches. Every family should have this shell at home.

Ayurved – Moti Shankh Health benefits

Original Moti Shanh / Gopuram Shankh – Front Face

This shell has great significance in Ayurved. If water is stored in the shell it gains amazing medicinal properties and with it, several physical defects can be cured.

1. Store some water overnight in this shell and the next morning rub the water on your skin. This cures all skin problems.

2. Store water in the shell for 12 hours. Then rub it on white spots on the skin. Do this regularly. After some days the white spots shall disappear and healthy skin shall reappear.

3. At night fill the shell with water and in the morning add some rose water to it. Then wash your hair with the mixture. This shall keep the hair black and healthy. The hair of the eyebrows and the beard too could be turned black thus.

4. If you suffer from stomach related problems or if there is a wound in the intestines, then early in the morning drink a spoonful of water kept in the shell for 12 hours. This shall cure the problem.

5. Mix water kept in the shell for 12 hours in ordinary water and early in the morning wash your eyes with it. Doing this regularly for some time shall cure all eye related problems. The eyes become perfectly healthy and one need not even wear spectacles in the future.

Financial success – Moti Shankh

This shell is said to represent Goddess Lakshmi. Hence keeping this shell at home in one’s place of worship helps one gain the blessing of the Goddess.

1. Early in the morning take some water in the shell and pour it into a bucket of water. Bathe with this water. This shall bring you good luck and fame.

2. Placing this shell at home or in one’s shop or place of work is a sure way to remove all financial problems and become rich and prosperous. This shankh banishes poverty and boosts one’s profits in business.

Beauty Benefits of Moti Shankh

1. If after a bath in the morning the shell is rubbed gently on the skin of one’s face wrinkles slowly disappear and the face gains a new glow by regular use of this process.

2. Those who wish to remain ever beautiful and have a unique radiance reflecting from their features should surely try this process.

3.If the shell is rubbed gently on the whole body the body starts to appear healthy, handsome and radiant.

4. If you have dark circles under your eyes which are marring your facial beauty, rub the shell gently on those spots early in the morning. This is a sure way of making the spots disappear.

Worship of Moti Shankh

Original Moti Shanh / Gopuram Shankh – Back Face

1.Moti shankh is considered Vishnu and Dakshinavarti shankh Lakshmi nature. Similarly, the pearl shell is considered a symbol of good luck to Goddess Lakshmi, and also It is used for moon accomplishment. Early in the morning on a Wednesday or every day have a bath and wear fresh clothes. Place the shell before yourself in the pooja room and start do poojas which similar to Lakshmi Pooja.

2.Home discord to destroy and to increase the positive energy in water it deserves a copper filling up in the northeast side of the house, negative energy is removed from the house and positive energy flows in the house.

3.Fill the pearl shell with rice and tie it with white cloth and keep it in the vault of the house, then the vault is never empty, four times the amount of money starts coming.

4.Keeping the pearl shell on Monday in the evening on white cloth in the temple of the house increases wealth.

Shankh, the Celestial Conch

During the prehistoric and medieval eras, it was used as the trumpet of the war. These days, it’s used during the Puja ceremonies to celebrate devotion. It’s considered the sacred emblem of Bhagavan Vishnu, and during the Navratri festival, Divine Mother Durga’s arrival is announced by blowing it.

As you might have guessed, we are talking about the celestial conch, Shankh, which has immense importance in Sanatana dharma. In this blog, we are talking about its Pauranik origins, types, its effect on Vastu, and its significance in spirituality.

Origins of Shankh

During Samudra Manthan, or churning of the celestial sea, 14 gems appeared out of it, and a Shankh named Panchajanya was one of them, along with Divine Mother Lakshmi. So, Shankh is considered the brother of Divine Mother Lakshmi, as both have appeared from the sea.

Shankh is the emblem of lord Vishnu, and every Vigraha of Lord Vishnu is considered incomplete without He holding the conch. Even the Lord of wealth-Kuber has eight most precious jewels in the universe, and one of them is Shankha Nidhi, the conch.

Atharva Veda, the ancient Vedic text, mentions Shankh and describes its celestial sound. Hundreds of Puranas, Shastras, and epics tell how every Gods have their own Shankhs and how they played it during the battles. For example, Lord Krishna has His conch named Panchajanya, and Devadatta was the name of Arjuna’s conch. Yudhishthir had a conch named Anantavijay, Bhim had a conch named Paundra and Nakul had a conch named Sughosh.

What are the different types of Shankh?

Dakshinavarti Shankh: It’s also called the Lakshmi Shankh because it’s considered the abode of Lord Kuber. It has a closed mouth; hence, it’s not used for blowing, but it’s used for the Puja. They are considered auspicious and bringer of good luck and prosperity.

It’s kept in the prayer room and decorated with Swastika, drawn on it with the Kumkum. During the Puja, it was worshipped with Diya, sandalwood, and flowers.

Vamavarti Shankh: It opens on the left hand and has a wide mouth opening. It’s used for blowing during the prayers. It should be held with the left hand while blowing. Sounding the Vamavarti Shankh repels the negativities and purifies the surroundings.

Ganesh Shankh: It’s the conch with a curvy tail, like the trunk of Lord Ganesh. It does not have a mouth for blowing, and it’s kept in the prayer room near the Gods. Praying to this Shank is considered auspicious and removes obstacles from your path. If it’s kept in the Puja room, it should be worshipped daily, and if you want to keep it in the house for Vastu reason, it could be kept inside the locker, wrapped in red cloth for prosperity.

Panchmukhi Shankh: Also known as the Gaumukhi Shankh, this conch is usually kept in the temples. Praying to the Gaumukhi Shankh, consecrated and kept in the temple, yields the same blessings as keeping the cow at home. Just like a cow is considered a symbol of abundance, the Panchmukhi conch also blesses you with happiness, good luck, and prosperity.

Kauri Shankh: Kauris are nature’s smallest and most abundantly available Shankhs. Kauri Shankh has been believed to attract prosperity and wealth for thousands of years. During prehistoric times it’s been used as a currency and part of the bride’s attire during prehistoric times. As per Sanatana Shastra, Divine Mother’s blessings reside on the Kauri and are usually kept in a cash box for prosperity, wealth, and abundance.

Moti Shankh: Moti means pearl. It’s as shiny and lustrous as a natural pearl. It’s considered one of the rarest and most expensive conchs in the world. It’s kept in the house to attract fortune, prosperity, luck, and success. It’s known to enhance the power of the moon in your life, bringing softness, charm, family life, and love to your life.

Gomati Shankh: Also known as the Gomati Chakra, it’s a form of shell stone or a fossilised conch. It’s considered very auspicious, as it resembles the shape of Krishna’s Sudharshan chakra. It’s often used as a Yantra to meditate and pray. As per Vastu experts, burying the Gomati conch in the foundations removes all sorts of Vastu Doshas from the new house. During the auspicious time of Diwali, it is worshipped along with the Divine Mother Lakshmi.

Spiritual Benefits of Shankh:

-Shankh brings peace and prosperity to the home.

-Regular blowing of the Shankh repels the negative vibrations from the surroundings and attracts positivity.

-When kept in study, it brings knowledge by the blessings of Divine Maa Saraswati.

-In the house with Vastu dosha, blowing the conch reduces the mal effects of the dosha.

-When kept in the bedroom, a conch strengthens the marital bond between a couple and enhances the relationship’s peace of mind and positivity. Dakshinvarti Shankh shields the children from nightmares as well.

-Many Vastu experts recommend burying a Shankh in the foundations of the building to shield the building from Vastu dosha.

-Keeping Dakshinavarti Shankh in the locker brings prosperity to the business, and keeping it in the kitchen prevents scarcity of the foods.

-When the water filled in Shankh is sprinkled around the house, it removes the negative vibrations from the house’s dark corners. Even it shields the home from any hexes or evil eyes.

-Conch is one of the eight signs of Lord Buddha, symbolising healthy communication, relationship, and prosperity. In Feng Shui, a water fountain designed with a conch symbolises an influx of money coming to the house.

– Blowing shakha keeps the lungs healthy. As we blow up the Shankh, it empties the lungs entirely and fills lungs with fresh air. This exercise makes the lung muscles stronger. Regular blowing the Shankh even cures a few intestinal diseases as well.

-According to the ancient scriptures of Purana, blowing Shankh activates the Sushumna channel of the body.

Keeping Shankh at home:

Before keeping the Shankh at home, one should consult their Guru or spiritual experts regarding which Shankh should be best suited for them. As per the scriptures, a conch shell must be established in the home or in the temple on an auspicious day, like Diwali, Navratri or Mahashivaratri, etc. During the consecration, Shankh should be washed with Ganga Jal.

It is believed that the energy from the gods enters through the pointy beak and spreads from the mouth of the Shankh. Hence, if you keep the Shankh in the shrine, ensure its pointy end points towards the gods, with the open part upwards.

Vastu even suggests that the Shankh should be kept on the right side of the prayer room. During Puja, Shankh should be washed, cleaned, and wiped out with a clean cloth regularly. Blowing Shankh should not be used to wash deities and should never be kept lying on the floor, as it’s considered the abode of Divine Mother Lakshmi.

Shankhini: If you find Shankh on the beach, first take it to the spiritual expert before putting it into your home. Many times, Shankhini is also mistaken for Shankh. Shankhini is a female form of Shankh, a kind of shell stone with a rough surface. Shankhini is known to attract negative energies; hence, it should be kept away from the prayer rooms at any cost. Only the Aghori sect uses these Shankhini to attract negative energies for their spiritual practices.

We hope you have gained some new insight into the importance of a Shankh in Sanatana Dharma. Next time, when you apply it to your forehead, remember what it symbolises, and what it can do to your spirituality.

Get True Benefits From Blowing A Conch Shell-Shankh

Blowing a conch shell (Shankh in Sanskrit) is the Hindu practice to worship our Gods and Goddesses. The significance of conch shell in Hinduism is very spiritual. But did you know, blowing conch shell benefits the health as well? Conch blowing is an exceptional exercise for the lower abdomen, urinary tract, diaphragm, bladder, chest, and neck muscles.

Either household prayer (pooja) or temple, Shankh (conch) is the most essential part of the Aarti. According to Hindu mythology, the Shankh is a pious symbol of the Hindu preserver, Lord Vishnu. As per history, Lord Vishnu fought a battle to defeat demon Shankhaasur. The Lord blew the conch shaped bone of his ear and head and killed him. Thus the sound “Om” was incarnated from the conch shell. Therefore the conch is named after Shankhaasur as “Shankh”.

The shankh blowing sound is propitious. The sound eliminates all wicked noises from our minds.

Some health benefits from Conch blowing

This beautiful nature artwork has health benefits if you blow regularly:

Conch blowing is the best exercise for your vocal cords and thyroid glands. This exercise improves any speech problems.
Blowing a conch puts pressure on the prostate area and improves prostate health and helps prevent prostate enlargement.
While blowing the conch the lung muscles are expanded, improving their aerial capacity. Also, conch blowing a type of yoga asana (poses) that is best for healthy lungs.
If you perform blowing conch every day, your fine lines will fade away from your face.
The conch sound destroys destructive elements from the environment and brings in positive energies. Blow a conch every day twice or thrice and get these powerful benefits.
The conch has its significance in Hinduism and Buddhism also. In India, this sacred trumpet is available in various forms of designs and shapes. The Hindu priest plays this trumpet at the end of Aarti or any ritual. Hindus consider keeping a conch shell in the house as a spiritual activity and you should too!

You will be surprised to know these amazing benefits of blowing Shankha

The word Shankh/ Shankha comes from the two Sanskrit words i.e. Shum which means something good and Kham means water. Therefore, Shankam is a conch/ conch shell that holds the sacred water. Shankh also known as conch shell, holds immense importance in the Hindu religion. According to Hindu mythology, the Shankh is a sacred emblem of the Hindu preserver Lord Vishnu. Basically, Shankh is blown during the puja ceremonies. As per Hindu scriptures, Shankh is highly revered as the bestower of prosperity, fame & longevity. Conch/ Shankha is the abode of goddess Lakshmi i.e. the Goddess of wealth & the consort of Lord Vishnu.

As always, there are major health benefits of blowing Shankh daily which is now being proven by scientists. An incentive spirometer which is popular now, is a device that can help you strengthen your lungs. Your doctor might give you a spirometer to take home after leaving the hospital after surgery. People with conditions that affect the lungs, like COPD, may also use an incentive spirometer to keep their lungs fluid-free and active. The quite surprising fact is that our ancestors had much earlier found the significance of the exercise and asked us to make it a routine as a part of pooja.

Here are the major benefits of blowing Shankh:

Conch blowing can provide a great exercise for, urinary tract, bladder, lower abdomen, diaphragm, chest and neck muscles.
You exercise the rectal muscles in the process of blowing a shankh thus strengthening the rectal muscles and preventing many problems which occur due to the gradual weakening of the rectal muscles.
As it also puts pressure on the prostate area, it improves the prostate health and helps prevent prostate enlargement.
When you blow the conch, your lung muscles are expanded, improving their aerial capacity. Also, perform these yoga asanas for healthy lungs.
Conch blowing also exercises your thyroid glands and vocal cords and helps in correcting any speech problems.
Your face muscles are stretched when you blow a conch, so you’re automatically doing away with fine lines by blowing the conch every day. These 8 Indian traditions are also beneficial for your health

Panchmukhi (5 Mukhi) Blowing Shankh

PanchMukhi Shankh Is also called as Cow Conch. Cow is considered very sacred in Hindu Religion and so is also named as Gomukhi Shankh. Keeping Gaumukhi shankh in Puja place/ temple gives all the (Punya/ blessings) benefits of keeping a cow. Gaumukhi Shankh helps in bringing harmony, peace and bliss. Religious SignificanceTo start any religious ceremonies, a Gomukhi conch shell (shankha) is blown. Even the Lord Vishnu, is shown with a Conch shell in one hand and a chakra or a disc in the other.

Panchmukhi Blowing Shankh

Gaumukhi Shankh benefits:-

• Gaumukhi Shankh has utmost significance in Hindu religion.

• Gaumukhi Shankh imparts sound which destroys all negative energy

• The special geometry of Gaumukhi Conch creates a positive energy and excludes pious vibes.

• Gaumukhi Shankh also purifies our surroundings and soul.

Shankhas

A conch is a sea-dwelling mollusc. In Hindu religion, it is popularly called as “Shankha” and considered to be one of the most auspicious objects that emerged from the sea during the Ksheera Sagara Samudra Manthan.

Religious Significance
In Indian mythology, the Shankha is regarded sacred and very auspicious. To initiate religious ceremonies, a shankha (conch shell) is blown. It is a major Hindu article of prayer. God Vishnu, the God of Preservation, is shown with a shankha in one hand and a disc or a chakra in the other.

Each hindu shankha has a specific name. Vishnu’s shankha is called “Panchajanya”. It is believed that when it is blown, it announces the victory of good over evil. In the epic war, Mahabharata, the conch shell held a significant place. Arjuna’s shankha was called “Devdutta”, Bhima’s “Paundra”, Yudhisthira’s “Anantavijaya”, Nakula’s “Sughosa” and Sahadeva’s was known as “Manipushpaka”.

The sacred conch shell is an integral part of Hindu symbolic and religious tradition. Even today, all Hindus use the conch as a part of their religious practices. Whenever the conch shell is blown, it is said to purify the environment from all evil effects.

Scientific significance
Leaving aside the mythology part, the conch shell’s significance can also be corroborated by science. If you try holding a shankha near your ear, the sound of the gently humming ocean can be heard. This is actually the natural vibration or cosmic energy of the Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell.

The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth and at the same time also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming. According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him.

Types of Shankhas

There are different varieties of shankhas depending on size, color and also religious significance.

Classification by Caste
Brahmana-variety : These shankhas are white in colour, smooth in texture and light.
Kshatriya-variety : These shankhas are red-coloured or brown-hued, heavy, rough and course.
Vaishya-variety : These shankhas are yellowish in hue, glossy, thick and light.
Shudra-variety : The shankhas of this variety are dull gray or dark brown in color, hard and heavy.

Classification by Religion
There are 6 types of auspicious Shankhas or conch shells known as “Shad Shubha Shankhas”. These are as folllows :

Moti/Pearl Shankhas

Dakshinavarti Shankhas

The shankhas that open towards the right hand are called Dakshinavarti Shankhas. These shahkhas are rare and are available in white color with brown lines on them that run towards the right or South. Lord Kuber (God of wealth) resides in South and so this shankha represents wealth and prosperity. The sizes differ and can be from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Dakshinavarti type of shankhas come from deep seas and are very rare.

Dakshinavarti shankha is considered very auspicious when kept at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It should be kept after being wrapped in a white cloth. This shankha is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family.

Significance of Dakshinavarti Shankha
This Shankha is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that she removes sorrows and gives intelligence, success, and worldly freedom. Traditionally, a Dakshinavarti shankha is similar in its piousness from the earthly incarnation of Vishnu or Lakshmi themselves and the blessings of Lakshmi literally flow out of the remaining shell on their own. Dakshinavarti shankhas not only bring wealth but also purify the atmosphere. All the negatives energies are swept out of the place.

Vaamavarti Shankhas

Ganesha Shankhas

Ganesha shankha is another precious and largely worshiped shankha. This shankha represents Lord Ganesha and is worshipped to remove obstacles, for learning, for success, for luck and prosperity to family. This shankha is considered a very auspicious item for protection from evil effects and is to get good luck and prosperity to family.

Ganesha shankha is best when kept in the Pooja Ghar (place of worship) daily or on all auspicious occasions and during religious festivals. It can also be kept in the locker of the house so that the family never faces any dearth of money. However it should be kept on red cloth in the worship room or wrapped in red cloth if kept in a locker.

Significance of Ganesh Shankhas
Ganesha is revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Ganesha is the first to be worshipped and invoked in Vedic worship rituals. He is always worshipped for siddhi (absolute success in undertakings), and buddhi (intelligence). He is considered to be the deity of education, knowledge, wisdom and literature.

Ganesha shankha is a very rare item and hence considered very lucky. Every house should have Ganesha Shankha to protect it from evil effects, to get wealth and prosperity. It is said that Ganesha Shankha increases the strength of character, mind, enhances confidence and helps in achieving happiness, fame and good health. If Ganesha Shankha is used in daily worship, there can be no doubt that the worshipper of this conch shell is blessed with healthy and long life of nobility, wisdom, scholarship, entrepreneurship, foresight and resourcefulness. From Feng Shui’s point of view, this conch attracts business luck from overseas and augments the chances of travelling abroad

Gaumukhi Shankhas

In Hindu Religion, the cow is considered the most sacred animal. She is a symbol of abundance, of the sanctity of all lives on Earth. Most Hindus worship and respect the cow as a matriarchal figure for her gentle qualities and for providing milk. In Hindu mythology, shankha or conch occupies a very important place. Shankhas are available in various shapes and sizes. A shankha which is very popular among the Hindus is the shankha resembling the cow and hence called as Gaumukhi Shankha. This shankha representing the cow’s face is considered very sacred. It is said that if you keep this shankha in a temple or pooja room, it can give you all the benefits of keeping a cow. This shankha helps in bringing peace, harmony and happiness to anyone who uses it in his daily prayers.

Kauri Shankhas

Kauri Shankha is a very rare shankha which when kept in your house can bring all luck and prosperity.

Significance of Kauri Shankha

It is said since ancient times that the possession of Kauris is considered to bring wealth and all round prosperity. That is the reason why it was a part of the marriage attire of the brides. Kauri is a rare sacred product found in the ocean. As per Hindu mythology, “Kauri” was obtained from “Samudra Manthan” along with “Lakshmi” and other rare divine and holy products. From a very ancient time “Kauri” was used as the currency and then was used in the ornaments and also used as the key of gambling. As per Hindu Shastras, “Kauri” is said to be the loving product of “Maha Lakshmi”. It is also related to Lord Shiva because the hairs of Lord Shiva are similar to “Kauri”. Indians also use “Kauri” to decorate Nandi, the devotee of Lord Shiva. It is also said to be a great tool to save the children from devil effects. Kauri Shankha is more powerful than kauris because it is a shankha plus a Kauri. This shankha is usually kept in the cash box for financial prosperity and to protect the owner from a financial debacles. Whoever keeps a “Kauri Shankha” during the prayer of “Goddess Lakshmi”, gets blessings and gains success, prosperity, wealth and fame in life.

EXCLUSIVE GAUMUKHI SHANKH

Gaumukhi Shankh is also called as Cow Conch. Cow is considered very sacred in Hindu Religion and so is also named as Gomukhi Shankh. Keeping Gaumukhi shankh in Puja place/ temple gives all the (Punya/ blessings) benefits of keeping a cow.

Dimensions: 7 inches (L) x 6 inches (W)
Weight: 600 grams approx

Vamavarti Sankh(Conch)

Unlock the ancient echoes of spirituality and reverence with our exquisite Sacred Sankh, a beautifully crafted conch shell that resonates with historical significance, scientific marvel, and cultural symbolism. We bring you the genuine sea Conch shells that comes directly from Nature to your hands.

Historical Perspective: The Shankh, or conch shell, holds a revered place in the annals of human history, dating back thousands of years. It is steeped in the cultural heritage of various civilizations, from ancient India to ancient Greece and beyond. In Hindu beliefs, the Shankh is deeply intertwined with tales of divine creation and cosmic resonance. Its melodious sound is believed to be the very sound that initiated the universe’s creation, echoing the very first vibrations of existence.

Scientific Use: Beyond its mythological significance, the Shankh carries an inherent scientific marvel. The shape of the conch shell has fascinated researchers and scientists for its unique acoustic properties. When blown, the Shankh produces a distinct and pure tone that resonates with the natural frequencies of the universe. This resonant sound is known to positively affect the human mind, inducing a state of tranquility and relaxation. In modern times, sound therapy and meditation techniques often incorporate the soothing tones of the Shankh to enhance mindfulness and spiritual experiences.

Cultural Beliefs: Embracing the Sacred Shankh in your spiritual practices connects you to a tapestry of cultural beliefs and traditions. In Hindu rituals, the sound of the Shankh is believed to purify the environment, ward off negative energies, and invoke divine blessings. It is sounded at the beginning of sacred ceremonies, symbolizing the call to prayer and aligning participants with higher states of consciousness. The Shankh’s sound is said to awaken dormant energies within, creating a harmonious atmosphere for self-discovery and inner exploration.

Product Features:

Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, each Sacred Shankh exudes timeless elegance and authenticity.
Produces a resonant and melodious sound that carries the essence of cosmic creation.
An ideal accompaniment for poojas, meditation, yoga sessions, and spiritual gatherings.
Comes with a complementary guide on how to use and care for your Sacred Shankh, ensuring a meaningful and enduring connection.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

India ‘Vamavarta Shankha’

South India

Hindu / Buddhist

Conch shell, metal

ca. 11-12 century C.E.

Length: 9.5 in, Width (widest): 4.5 in, Height (tallest): 3.75 in

Aerophones – Wind Instruments Proper – Lip Vibrated

The Vamavarti Shankh (sacred conch) has considerable significance in Hindu religion. When blown, it eradicates the ill effects of negative or evil energies and purifies one’s soul and surroundings. Representation of the Trimūrti, the trinity (“three forms”) of supreme divinity in Hinduism can be seen in the carving on this ancient Vamavarta shankha. The triad of sacred deities include “Brahma” – the creator, “Vishnu” – the preserver, and “Shiva” – the destroyer.

This conch shell horn is carved with an intricate relief of a religious procession with 15 anthropomorphic figures, some of them with multiple heads and arms like deities, and 3 bipedal deer figures. The relief wraps around the bulk of the instrument, and near the top there is a smaller carving of five figures. Across the entire instrument, the figures are holding drums, short swords, tridents, rolling out carpets, and blowing horns. The rest of the instrument is also carved in relief with wave-like patterns, swirls, and geometric trim. The mouthpiece and endpiece of the instrument are both made of a decorated shaped silver metal, and the bottom has a bright red stone embedded in the metal. There is a shaped piece of metal also decorating the hand opening.

Dakshinavarti Shankh original

The Dakshinavarti Shankh is a rare and unique conch shell that is highly prized by Hindu devotees and collectors alike. This conch is considered sacred, is used for rituals and prayers, and is said to bring good luck, prosperity, and success to its owner.

The Dakshinavarti Shankh is easily recognisable by its unique and distinct shape, as it opens to the right instead of the left, making it different from the commonly found shankh.

The shell is made of calcium carbonate and is smooth and shiny, with intricate patterns and ridges that have a natural beauty and charm. The interior of the shell is hollow, with a narrow passage that extends from the mouth to the other end. The sound that the Dakshinavarti Shankh produces when blown is clear, crisp, and melodious, making it an ideal instrument for auspicious ceremonies and prayers.

The conch is believed to have originated in the depths of the ocean, where it is considered the abode of Lord Vishnu. In Hindu mythology, it is said that Lord Vishnu carries the Dakshinavarti Shankh as one of his weapons, which he uses to protect the universe from evil. This makes the shankh a symbol of strength, protection, and power.

The Dakshinavarti Shankh is available in various sizes, and it is typically made of pure, natural, and authentic materials. The conch is often used in Hindu homes and shrines, where it is placed on an altar and worshipped daily. The shankh is also commonly used in the Hindu tradition of doing puja (worship), where it is blown during rituals to purify the environment and invite positive energies.

Overall, the Dakshinavarti Shankh is a unique and beautiful artefact that holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. It is an ideal addition to any collection, and it is a great investment for anyone who is looking for a special and meaningful item that they can treasure for a lifetime.

Only at https://kashipujan.com/ can you find the best-quality Dakshinavarti Shankh for you and your loved ones. Add this unique Shankh in your cart now and don’t miss the chance.

What are the benefits of using Dakshinavarti Shankh?

Here are the benefits of using Dakshinavarti Shankh:

Brings wealth and prosperity: It is believed that Dakshinavarti Shankh brings wealth and prosperity to the house where it is kept.

Removes negativity: The sound produced by blowing the shankh is believed to purify the environment by removing negative energies.

Provides spiritual benefits: The sound of the shankh is said to aid in meditation and provide spiritual benefits.

Remedies for Vastu defects: Dakshinavarti Shankh is said to be useful in correcting Vastu defects in a house or office.

Helps in curing diseases: It is believed that drinking water from the Shankh can help in curing diseases like asthma, high blood pressure, and mental disorders.

Note: The above benefits are based on traditional beliefs and should not be considered medical or scientific advice.

Who can use Dakshinavarti Shankh?

According to Hindu mythology and traditions, Dakshinavarti Shankh is considered auspicious and is used for various spiritual and religious purposes. It is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and blessings. Anyone who follows Hinduism and its customs can use it for worship, meditation, and other spiritual practices.

How to use Dakshinavarti Shankh?

Here are the steps to using Dakshinavarti Shankh as per Hindu tradition:

Clean the Dakshinavarti Shankh with water and a cloth to remove any dirt or impurities.

Sit on a mat or a clean surface, facing east.

Light a lamp or incense stick and offer some flowers to the Shankh.

Hold the shankh in your left hand with the opening facing upwards and the pointed end facing towards you.

Close your eyes and chant the mantra “Om Namo Narayana” or any other preferred mantra while blowing into the shankh.

Repeat the process 11 times more, or as desired.

Place the shankh in your puja room or on your altar for daily worship or as a decorative item.

Note: It is believed that Dakshinavarti Shankh brings prosperity, success, and good luck. However, it is recommended to consult with a priest or an expert before using it for any specific purpose.

Dakshinavarti Shankh

The Dakshinavarti Shankh, or Sri Lakshmi Shankh, is a sacred Hindu object otherwise known as the Conch shell with a reverse-turning spiral. When held with the spout pointed up, the conch’s spiral will turn to the right (Dakshinavarti) rather than the far more common variety which turns left (Vamavarti).

Genuine v/s fake

Traditionally this shell is a member of the family Sinistral turbinella pyrum, although other right-turning shells such as the Lightning Whelk, or Busycon Contrarium, are often mistakenly sold and worshipped in place of the genuine Shank. Genuine Lakshmi Shank must be a Conch, not a Whelk, and the real Lakshmi Shank will have 3 to 7 ridges in the conch cavity. Whelk shells have no ridges, being unrelated to Conch.

Origin

While genuine Dakshinavarti Lakshmi Conch are only found in the Indian ocean, between Myanmar (Burma) all the way to Sri Lanka. The imitation (Lightning Whelks) mostly come from North America.

Rarity

Real Lakshmi Conch (right side spinning) are estimated to occur only one per 100,000 conch shells; but Lightning Whelk always open on the right.

Powers ascribed

The Lakshmi Conch is said to bring all manner of blessing, but particularly material wealth, upon the owner. Ritual use may include bathing deities, drinking from the conch, or the use of mantras oriented to goddess Sri Lakshmi.

Current Value

Indian Rs. 3,000 to 6,000 per gram, depending on size, type and quality

Dakshinavarthi Shankh – a very Sacred Object of the Hindus

Origin

The Dakshinavarthi Shankh is a very sacred object of the Hindus and it is also important because it is regarded as the symbol of Goddess Lakhsmi. It is actually a conch shell of a huge sea snail. This shell is especially taken from the Indian Ocean from a particular species of snails found in this region. The conch shell chosen should be a right handed conch shell.

This kind of shells is generally white in color with brown spiral linings on it. It is very difficult to choose between the real one and a fake one. The one that has a rare and unique reverse –turning spiral is the real one. The genuine one also belongs to the species from the Indian oceans and not from the species from Florida, U.S.A.

Rarity and Uniqueness

There are many conch shells found in the ocean that open from a left opening but the Dashinavarthi Shankh should be the one which when held in such a way that the spout is in the upward direction , will have the spirals turned towards the right. The real ones also have 3-4 ridges on them. It is also known as the Lakhsmi Shankh as it is used as a calling card to the Goddess Lakhsmi, the goddess of wealth. It is a kind of a sacred artifact in the Hindu religion.

The uniqueness of this shell can be judged by the fact that out of every 100,000 conch shells, there is only one which is truly the Dakshinavarti Shankh. The true Valampuri shell or the Lakhsmi Shankh is the one that has five folds in the cavity of the shell which are known as ‘Panchajanya’. The ones which are completely snow-white in color are very unique and expensive.

Placing of the Conch Shell

The installing or the placing of the conch shell inside the place of worship involves a number of procedures and rituals. After choosing a right handed conch shell, one should put it on a plate. Then the conch should be bathed with honey, milk, sugar, ghee and yoghurt. The deities are also bathed with holy water. Some mantras or chants are recited after the burning of incense sticks to purify the air. Some offerings are also given in the form of rice and milk.

Significance

The Dakshinavarti Shankh has great importance in the Sanatana Dharma of the Hindu religion. Hindu deities are seen carrying this conch shell in their hands in the Hindu art and paintings. This further emphasizes the significance of this shell.

The Lakshmi conch shell is said to bring good fortune and wealth as it is related to the Hindu Goddess of wealth.

Some rituals that are used when using this shell are bathing of the deities and using the shell for drinking and then offering chants or Vedic verses or mantras to the Goddess. The burning of incense sticks and the offering of rice and milk is also done. The Goddess Lakhsmi is said to be the consort of Lord Vishnu. She is not only the goddess of wealth and fortune, but she also removes sorrow and unhappiness but also bestows intelligence, freedom and success to her devotees.

The conch is believed to remove the power of curses of the other people, evil omens and also sins. It also purifies the surroundings by eliminating the negative energies from the place where it has been kept.

Dakshinavarti shankh

Dakshinvarti Shankh conch shell is considered as a sacred and ritual in Hinduism and Buddhism from ancient times. It is called as Dakshinavarti because it has right hand twists in the bottom. Most of the Indian pundits use it while performing pooja’s and havana’s. As per belief, it is said that Goddess Lakshmi resides inside this shankha and worshipping brings wealth and prosperity.

Different Types Of Shankh And Its Importance

Shankh and its Importance

Shankh is used in religious rites to signal the start of a prayer or the advent of a deity. Sacred water is gathered and distributed in it in various places. Shankha is blown at the start of every festival and auspicious beginning, and its sound welcomes in new life and optimism. Water is frequently collected and kept in the conch shell, which is then sprinkled during pujas.

The conch shell is filled with milk before being poured over the idol during Lakshmi Puja. While worshipping the sun, water gathered in Shankh is presented. When sacred shankh is blown during religious events, the thunderous musical notes rent the air, allowing fervent feelings to be expressed.

Shankh is also a part of Indian classical music, and there is a mudra based on it in classical dance. The blowing of shankh cleanses and purifies the air, making it favourable to spiritual meditation. As a result, receiving the highest sattvik frequencies from the deities becomes more easy.

Know about Indian Mythology and Shankh

Due to Durvasa Rishi’s curse, Devaraja Indra had to suffer, whereas Daityaraj Bali had conquered the three planets. Bali wreaked mayhem all over the place. All the gods came to Lord Vishnu to find a solution to Bali’s problem. He advised all of the Gods to participate in the Samudra Manthan. The devils and Gods then joined forces to churn the seas in order to capture Amrit.

With Samudra Manthan, a total of fourteen diamonds were released. One of them was Conch Shell. Lord Vishnu was honoured with this conch. That is why the conch is played so prominently during the Lakshmi-Vishnu Puja.

Panchajanya Shankh was the name given to Lord Vishnu’s conch. It is the most powerful shankh of all. Panchajanya Shankh is associated with prosperity, peace, money, and material success. This conch, together with the Sudarshan Chakra and Lotus flower, are essential parts of Vishnu’s idol.

What are the types of Shankh?

Shankh is divided into several categories, each of which is named after a God. There are also Right-Handed and Left-Handed shankhs, which belong to Vishnu and Shiva, respectively. Ganesh Shankh, Dakshinavarti Shankh, Vamavarti Shankh, Kauri Shankh, Gaumukhi Shankh, Shankhini, Heera Shankh, and Moti Shankh are all based on the names of Gods.

Some other Conchs are:

Other than its spiritual and mythological significance, one should know the health benefits and what is conch good for.

Drinking the water held overnight in the conch cures several maladies such as jaundice, bones, teeth, and stomach problems. Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, and Sulphur are all present. Blowing the conch produces scalar sound waves that help to balance the chakras in the body.

The vibrations it generates clean the air and are said to kill disease-causing microorganisms in the atmosphere. It aids in the development of excellent lung capacity. The thyroid, neck muscles, and vocal cords are all affected by blowing the Conch.

Anything with spiritual importance should be carefully cared for according to rituals and conventions. Shankh is no different. A shankh may appear insignificant, but it is a powerful healer. It is suitable for keeping at home since it brings positive energy and good fortune. Inquire with our specialist about the best conch for you.

How to Keep Shankh in Pooja Room

Vishnu’s emblem, the shankh, is revered in Hinduism and Buddhism. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna and the five Pandavas held a shankh, and shankh is often use for krishna idol decoration in temples or pooja room . The shankh has evolved from ocean churning or Samudra Manthan. Out of “Pancha Maha Varna” or “Five Great Elements,” a shankh is one of the Hindu ceremonial worships that signifies air and breath of life.

In Sanskrit, shankh or shankham translates for Shum, anything nice, and Kham, water. Shankham translates as “the conch that contains the sacred water.” Shankh is placed in temples or pooja rooms along with other things for a variety of purposes. In this blog, you will know the significance of shankh and recommendations for keeping it in good condition.

Significance of Shankh in Hinduism

The conch is said to be home to deities. Varun Dev lies at the conch’s center, Brahma in the back, and goddess Ganga and goddess Saraswati in the front.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu blows the shankh to remove evil in the universe in his numerous forms.

The conch is the ideal instrument for bringing positive energy into our minds and surroundings.

Whereas the conch is a highly revered instrument, it is also thought to be Lord Vishnu’s most formidable weapon.

As Lord Vishnu is often depicted holding a Panchajanya Shankh, it is common to see Vishnu idols grasping this sacred conch.

A shankh is utilised at the commencement of prayers or any auspicious beginning in religious rites. The sound is associated with optimism and the clearing of hurdles.

While performing religious activities, water held in a conch shell is sprinkled to wash and purify the room.

Two conches are classified: left-handed conch shells and right-handed conch shells. The fortunate is the right-handed conch, also known as Lakshmi Shankh or Dakshinavarti Shankh. However, shankh is classified into two types according to the Vedic texts: 1) for blowing sound and 2) for devotion. It is stated that anyone who blows into the Shankh daily is immune to heart illness. As a result, many individuals retain this precious sign in their homes.

Significance of Shankh in Hinduism

The conch is said to be home to deities. Varun Dev lies at the conch’s center, Brahma in the back, and goddess Ganga and goddess Saraswati in the front. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu blows the shankh to remove evil in the universe in his numerous forms.

The conch is the ideal instrument for bringing positive energy into our minds and surroundings. Whereas the conch is a highly revered instrument, it is also thought to be Lord Vishnu’s most formidable weapon. As Lord Vishnu is often depicted holding a Panchajanya Shankh, it is common to see Vishnu idols grasping this sacred conch.

A shankh is utilised at the commencement of prayers or any auspicious beginning in religious rites. The sound is associated with optimism and the clearing of hurdles. While performing religious activities, water held in a conch shell is sprinkled to wash and purify the room.

How to Place Shankh in Pooja Room or Mandir

Follow these below steps to know how to place shankh in the mandir-

Before placing the shankh, clean it. Shankh can be cleaned at a nice mahurat on Thursday or the Treasure.

Keep the shankh in the pooja room with the pointed end facing the idols at all times.

The shankh should be stored with the open section facing the ceiling and the beak on its side. It is believed that the energy and vibrations emitted by the idols go to the pointed area of the shankh and distribute positive energies throughout the house.

A silver base that fits the size of the shankh is the finest way to put it.

Spread a red cloth around the platform and place it in the sand.

Shankh should be kept on the right side of the room.

Load the shankh with crimson threads and rice.

Draw the Swastika emblem on Shankh and worship it with sandal paste, flowers, incense, and light.

Rules for Using Shankh

Remember these Vastu rules to keep shankh in the mandir or your pooja room-

Shankh should not be utilised to provide water to the deities when blown during prayers.

After washing the shankh with holy water regularly, cover it with a white or crimson cloth.

The conch shell should constantly be kept full of water at the worship site.

Worship the shankh regularly, and make sure you blow into them at least twice a day.

To eliminate bad energy, scatter water from the conch shell throughout the house.

During any religious practice, the shankh should never be put above the Shivling or come into contact with the Shiv Pindi.

Do not offer Lord Shiva idol or Lord Sun water with a shankh.

Two conches should never be kept together for worship in a pooja room.

Never leave a shankh on the floor since it is considered a divinity.

Shankh that is broken or cracked should never be kept in the pooja room.

Do not keep thorny conches and corals as decoration pieces since they cause an imbalance in the healthful environment of your home.

Benefits of keeping Shankh in Pooja Room

Few benefits of keeping shankh in the pooja room-

Shankh attracts money and success when maintained at home.

Shankh is thought to ward against bad energy while bringing calm and optimism into one’s life.

The presence of shankh in the home provides knowledge by invoking Goddess Saraswati.

Blowing the shankh regularly in a Vastu-flawed house neutralises the Vastu doshas.

The sound of Om emerges from the shankh when it is blown with the regulated breath, which helps the mind rest.

You can hear the sound of the ocean when the shankh is held close to the ear.

Different types of shankh to keep in the Pooja Room

1. Shankh of Lord Ganesha

Ganesha shankh represents Lord Ganesha and is worshiped to eliminate barriers and provide success, knowledge, and great fortune. This shankh is considered fortunate since it protects against harmful influences. Ganesha shankh is best kept in a home shrine and can be worshiped regularly or during religious holidays. It can also be stored in the house’s locker, covered in crimson cloth. This ganesha shankh is used in ganesha temples such as siddhivinayak temple of mumbai which is considered as one of the top richest temple in the world along with other temples like tirupati balaji and vaishno devi temple.

2. Vamavarti Shankh

Vamavarti shankh opens towards the left hand, its mouth in the center. Vamavarti is the most prevalent shankh that is used for all religious occasions. It is used in the left hand. It is said to be Goddess Lakshmi’s brother and Lord Vishnu’s favorite. It is said that when you blow the vamavarti shankh, it cleanses the environment and eliminates bad energy.

3. Dakshinavarti Shankh or Laxmi Shankh

The Lakshmi shankh is an alternate name for the dakshinavarti shankh. The Daksinavarta or Dakshinavarti shankh is open on the right side. It is considered the abode of Kuber, the deity of riches. Because it has a closed mouth, it can only be worshiped and makes no sound. Right-handed shankhs are considered lucky, attracting good fortune, tranquility, and wealth. Right-handed conch shells should be placed in north, east, or northeast puja rooms.

4. Kauri Shankh

According to Hindu myth, kauri, Lakshmi, and other sacred objects were retrieved from the Samudra Manthan. Kauri is considered Mahalakshmi’s love product, according to Hindu shastras. Moreover, it is connected with Lord Shiva and is used to adorn Nandi. Kauris have been believed to bring riches and prosperity since ancient times. It was used as cash in ancient times and was part of the bride’s bridal outfit. You can store kauri shankh in the cash box for prosperity and wealth.

5. Shankh of Lord Shiva

Some may know that shankh is not utilised in Lord Shiva’s worship. According to mythology, Radha became enraged after witnessing Shri Krishna with her companion Virja and cursed them. Sudama, Krishna’s friend, became enraged while listening to Radha’s wrathful comments. Sudama was cursed by Radha and became a demon known as Shankhchur. He ascended to the throne of all three planets and began tormenting the sages and saints. At the same moment, Lord Shiva became enraged and killed Shankh chur. As a result, water is provided to Vishnu and other deities from shankh, but as Lord Shiva killed Shankhchur, the shankh is considered prohibited in Lord Shiva worshiping.

Conclusion

Shanka is a great part of everyday puja and Navratri or other Hindu religious festivals. You have also learned about various advantages of keeping shankh at home in your prayer room or mandir. Follow the Vastu rules while placing the shankh in the pooja room and keep on getting blessings.

Different Types of Conch – Shankh – in Hinduism – Benefits

As per Hinduism, there are different types of Shankh and they have different benefits to a devotee when kept at home. Here are the different types of conch in Hindu religion and their benefits. Please note that many of the conch are very to find and some are hidden in the oceans and earth.

Madhyavarti Shankh

This conch has opening in the middle. It is a very rare type of conch. Keeping this at home will help in achieving desires. Apart from desire fulfillment, it is also believed to be a harbinger of peace, success and prosperity.

Vamavarti Shankh – Dakshinavarti Shankh – Valampuri

This shankh is held using the left hand. It is known as Vamavarti, Dakshinavarti and Valampuri Shankh. This is also a very rare type of conch. Having it at home will help in driving out poverty and negative forces. This will help in solving financial problems. There will be blessing of Kuber and Lakshminarayan. Goddess Lakshmi will reside in such homes.

Moti Shankh

Moti Shankh is a small conch with various patterns on it and this is easily available. The conch helps in achieving mental peace. Having at home will help in achieving peace in relationships. Mental disorders like depression etc can be controlled through the worship of it. Drinking water kept overnight in Moti Shankh helps in curing health issues associated with heart and lungs.

Ganesh Shankh

This is a very rare and highly auspicious conch. This shankh is in the shape of Bhagavan Ganesha. It is believed that merely by seeing the shankh one will find relief to life problems. Worshipping it will help in fulfillment of desires related to property and wealth. Drinking water kept overnight in Ganesh Shankh by pregnant women will help in having healthy and intelligent children. It is believed that such a child will be intelligent enough to find solutions to various problems in life. Drinking water from it helps in curing jaundice.

Vishnu Shankh

This white colored conch is highly distorted. Some people suggest that if one looks carefully at the conch it has the shape of Garuda – the vehicle of Bhagavan Vishnu. This conch is also known as Chandra Shankh. Keeping it at home and doing proper worship will help in desire fulfillment. Negative forces and enemy activity will be prevented by it. It also helps in alleviating sadness from life.

Devi Shankh

This very rare conch is associated with Mother Goddess Shakti. It is believed that Adi Shakti Maa Durga carried such a conch whenever she appeared to annihilate demons and restore Dharma. A man who sounds the conch nine times gets the merit of reading Durga Saptasati 900 times. Worshiping this conch will help in getting the blessing of Mother Goddess. She will protect, bless and nourish the devotee. It is believed that Devi will reside in homes in which Devi Shankh is properly respected and worshipped.

Manipushpak Shankh

This rare conch is associated with Sahadev, one of the Pandava brothers in the Mahabharat. The face of the Shankh is completely opened. Having this Shankh at home will help in a peaceful family life. There will be love and cooperation in the family. Keeping water overnight in the Shankh and having it in the morning will help in solving heart related problems. Worshiping it helps in having good health.

Neelkanth Shankh

This rare conch is associated with Bhagavan Mahadev Shiva. It is believed that the Halahala poison, which appeared during Samdura manthan (churning of ocean), was collected in this Shankh and drank by Shiva. Neelkanth Shankh gets its name from this divine incident. If a person is bitten by poisonous reptiles or animals then drinking Ganga River water filled in the Neelkanth Shankh will cure the person. Houses in which this conch is present will never be visited by poisonous animals. Filling the conch with pure cow milk and keeping it in sunlight for few minutes and then drinking it will help in curing even the most dreaded diseases. Having the conch at home is good for health and for mental peace.

Annapurna Shankh

This is a heavy and big conch. It has an attractive look. Houses in which Annapurna Shankh is present will be blessed with good food. There will be good health. People in the house will be always radiant, beautiful and handsome.

Lakshmi Shankh

This is a conch associated with Goddess Lakshmi. The belief is that she resides in the conch. It is good for business and career prospects. It is ideal for those looking for job or wishing to start a business.

Gomukhi Shankh

This conch has the shape of the face of a cow. It is a powerful and meritorious conch. Possessing it will help in wish fulfillment. It is a harbinger of good health. A person will be able to enjoy various material and bodily pleasures.

Kamdenu Shankh

This conch is associated with the divine cow Kamdhenu in Hinduism. This helps in desire fulfillment. Person possessing it will be blessed with health and long life. It also blesses a person with fame and honor.

Deva Shankh

This conch used to be carried by Devas or Demigods in Hindu religion. This is a very rare conch. Worship of it will help in achieving heaven on earth. A person in possession of it will be blessed with wisdom. It is ideal for spiritual aspirants. It is good for students and those in search for job and better career prospects.

Chakra Shankh

This conch is associated with Bhagavan Vishnu. It is believed that he annihilated various demons with the help of it. It is a symbol of victory of dharm over adharma. Sound of it helps in achieving moksha. Devotee who has the luck of listening to the sound of it, will achieve self-realization and will be transported to Vaikunta – the abode of Vishnu.

Did You Know
As per Vishnu Purana, Shankh is the brother of Goddess Lakshmi as both Shankh and Goddess Lakshmi appeared during the Samudra Manthan or churning of ocean.

Regular blowing of conch helps in strengthening the muscles of heart, it helps in curing lung related health issues, improves breathing and it also helps in improving intelligence.

The best days to install Shankh at home in the puja area are Ravi Pushya (Pushya Nakshatra on Sunday), Guru Pushya (Pushya Nakshatra on Thursday), Navratri, Holi, Diwali and Mahashivratri.

SIGNIFICANCE AND TYPES OF CONCH SHELL (SHANKHA)

The conch shell is a major Hindu article of prayer, used as a trumpet and in order to get rid of negative energy and evil spirits. It is also used as a container for holy water ( shankha jala ). The shankha (conch shell) mudra is also used during various tantric rituals and meditation. “Shankha” is considered to be one of the most auspicious objects that emerged from the sea during the Ksheera Sagara Samudra Manthan.

Religious Significance

Scientific significance

Dakshinavarti Shankha

Dakshinavarti shankha is considered very auspicious when kept at any sacred place or the place of worship or the locker in the house. It should be kept after being wrapped in a white cloth. This shankha is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family.

This Shankha is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. It is said that she removes sorrows and gives intelligence, success, and worldly freedom. Traditionally, a Dakshinavarti shankha is similar in its piousness from the earthly incarnation of Vishnu or Lakshmi themselves and the blessings of Lakshmi literally flow out of the remaining shell on their own. Dakshinavarti shankhas not only bring wealth but also purify the atmosphere. All the negatives energies are swept out of the place.

Vamavarti Shankha

The blowing of a Vaamavarti shankha removes the ill effects of negative energies and it purifies our surroundings and soul.

Gaumukhi Shankha

Ganesha Shankha

Ganesha shankha is best when kept in the Pooja Ghar (place of worship) daily or on all auspicious occasions and during religious festivals. It can also be kept in the locker of the house so that the family never faces any dearth of money. However it should be kept on red cloth in the worship room or wrapped in red cloth if kept in a locker.

Ganesha is revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Ganesha is the first to be worshipped and invoked in Vedic worship rituals. He is always worshipped for siddhi (absolute success in undertakings), and buddhi (intelligence). He is considered to be the deity of education, knowledge, wisdom and literature.

Ganesha shankha is a very rare item and hence considered very lucky. Every house should have Ganesha Shankha to protect it from evil effects, to get wealth and prosperity. It is said that Ganesha Shankha increases the strength of character, mind, enhances confidence and helps in achieving happiness, fame and good health. If Ganesha Shankha is used in daily worship, there can be no doubt that the worshipper of this conch shell is blessed with healthy and long life of nobility, wisdom, scholarship, entrepreneurship, foresight and resourcefulness. From Feng Shui’s point of view, this conch attracts business luck from overseas and augments the chances of travelling abroad.

Kauri Shankha

Moti Shankha

Heera Shankha

Different Types Of Shankh And Its Importance

Shankh and its Importance

Know about Indian Mythology and Shankh

There are numerous legends associated with the conch shell in the vast Hindu literature. One such legend goes as follows:

There were fourteen gems that came out with Samudra Manthan. Conch Shell was one of them. This conch was dedicated to Lord Vishnu. That is why conch is essentially played in Lakshmi-Vishnu Puja.

What are the types of Shankh?

Some other Conchs are:

Other than its spiritual and mythological significance, one should know the health benefits and what is conch good for.