The playing of a Shankh or Conch shell has been an important ritual in Hindu religious worship. Shankh Vadan is an integral part of worship in many regions of the country and is played like a trumpet. It has also been used as a war trumpet in ancient times. Usually played along with an Aarti as a conclusion of the prayers, the Shankh Naad produces a sound similar to that of ‘Om’ that is believed to be the primeval sound of creation.
The conch shell is associated with Lord Krishna as it the sacred emblem of Lord Vishnu, the preserver. The Shankh is believed to be the harbinger of fame, longevity, and prosperity, the cleanser of sins, and the abode of goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. It is also one of the eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism, the Ashtamangala, and represents the pervasive sound of Buddhism.
The playing of the Shankh to create a loud Om sound is believed to align the listeners as well as the surrounding space with the balanced vibration and energy of the universe. It is believed that sound is able to destroy harmful elements in the environment and bring in positive energy.
The Shankh is mentioned in many Vedas & Puranas. It is described in many legends with its many powers, one of which is also associated with female fertility. Apart from the many iconographic representations, spiritual benefits, it also has many health benefits. Shankha bhasma contains calcium, iron, and magnesium and is considered to possess antacid and digestive properties, and is used in Ayurveda to treat stomach ailments. Shankh Naad or conch blowing is a great exercise for the chest and neck muscles, diaphragm, lower abdomen, bladder, and urinary tract. When you blow the Shankh, your lung muscles are expanded, improving their aerial capacity. It also exercises your thyroid glands and vocal cords. Your face muscles are stretched when you blow a Shankh, so you’re automatically doing away with fine lines by blowing the conch every day.
Head over to the ghats every evening to try your hand or face at a Shankh Naad. You can also experience a surreal Aarti around the lake with multiple temple bells singing in unison with the Shankh Naad.