New Delhi: 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.