Significance of Shankhas 2

Chapter /part 2: Types and significance of shanka.

Shankhas are also classified according to their sizes. Yavakar shankhas are very small in size; as small as the size of a wheat grain and are usually dark grey in color. They are quite strong and cannot be crushed easily. Ellakar shankhas are a little bigger, varying between the size of a cardamom, a round beetle nut or a lemon. These are mostly found in lakes. Moti Shankha (a conch shell that shines like a pearl) is even more rare and difficult to find. It has the luster of a pearl and is generally round in shape. This precious variety of shankha is available in all big and small sizes.

The shankhas that open towards left hand (vaamavarti) are commonly available but rare are the ones that open towards right side (i.e., facing South). This kind of shankha is called dakshinavarti. Dakshinavarti Shankhas are available in white color and with brown lines on them. Their sizes differ, starting from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Mostly these shells are available only at Kanya Kumari. A completely white colored Shankha is indeed rare.

Moti shankha, like the Dakshinavarti Shankha, is said to banish poverty and boost one’s profits in business. Placing this shell (after performing some rituals of its worship) at home or in one’s shop or place of work is believed to bring prosperity. This shell can also be worshipped on Diwali so as to gain the blessings of the Goddess Lakshmi.

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 puranas, "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.

Gaumukhi Shankha 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. 

Another precious and largely worshiped shankha is the Ganesha Shankha. Its appearance resembles the idols of Lord Ganesha. Ganapati or Ganesha, the Lord of Ganas, manifested in an elephant faced form, represents the power of the Supreme Being that removes obstacles and ensures success in human endeavors. Ganesha is revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is the first to be worshipped and invoked in Vedic worship rituals. He is worshipped for siddhi absolute success in undertakings, and buddhi intelligence. He is also the deity of education, knowledge, wisdom and literature.

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.Being rare,its very costly.