Why Do Hindus Blow the Conch Shell During Religious Ceremonies?
In Hindu religious traditions, blowing the conch shell, known as shankha, holds deep spiritual, symbolic, and practical significance. It is an integral part of worship, rituals, and auspicious occasions. The practice is rooted in ancient Vedic scriptures and supported by traditional beliefs as well as modern scientific observations.
According to the Atharvaveda, the conch shell is associated with the fundamental elements of creation—space, air, light, and even gold. The sound produced by blowing the conch is believed to weaken negative forces and instill positive energy in the surroundings. Scriptures describe the conch as a protector of the world, capable of subduing demonic influences and eliminating disease, sorrow, ignorance, and poverty, while also promoting longevity.
Ancient Hindu texts emphasize that sound has immense power. The vibration created by the conch shell is considered especially pure and auspicious. This is why the conch is blown at the beginning and end of worship, during aarti, and on important religious and social occasions.
The Skanda Purana, in the text Ranveer Bhaktiratnakar, praises the spiritual benefits of blowing the conch during worship. It states:
“One who blows the conch during worship is freed from all sins and joyfully attains the presence of Lord Vishnu.”
Because of this belief, blowing the conch has become an essential ritual during auspicious events such as weddings, victory celebrations, coronations, festivals, and daily temple worship.
In Hindu temples, it is customary to blow the conch at sunrise and sunset. The belief behind this practice is that sunlight affects sound waves, and the powerful vibration of the conch at these times helps purify the environment. The sound is said to remove subtle impurities from the atmosphere and create a spiritually charged space.
Modern research has also explored the effects of conch blowing. Indian scientist Dr. Jagadish Chandra Bose studied sound vibrations and observed that the sound produced by blowing a conch shell can travel long distances and weaken or destroy harmful microorganisms. According to his findings, regular conch blowing may help purify the surrounding air.
Further research conducted at the University of Berlin concluded that sound waves generated by the conch shell can destroy bacteria responsible for various serious diseases. Studies suggested that microorganisms linked to ailments such as cholera, malaria, leprosy, and goiter are adversely affected by the powerful vibrations of the conch. Additionally, conch blowing is believed to strengthen the nervous system and increase resistance to conditions such as fainting and epilepsy.
Thus, the practice of blowing the conch shell is not merely a ritualistic tradition. It represents a harmonious blend of spirituality, environmental purification, and well-being. Through its sacred sound, the conch symbolizes victory of purity over impurity and divine order over chaos.
Note: You may also be interested to read “Why Lamps Are Lit in Hindu Rituals: Spiritual Significance“
