Types of Shankh for Home Decor & Vastu

"Holding the Shankh is like holding the universe in your hands, a token of divinity and infinite energy." - Anonymous

Shankh or Conch has always been a fundamental of our culture.

The revered sound while blowing shankh is resonated with sound of OM or the primodial sound of the universe (musica universalis of music of the spheres). In Buddhist traditions it is known as voice of Buddha. It also has far reaching significance to multiple other sea faring civilizations and religions as well.

Its unique design and powerful resonance have been celebrated in rituals, mythology, and now, modern home décor.

Thus Shankh is more than a decorative object, which is also a major part of pooja rituals, Vastu and generally positive energies for home.

Let's explore further

What is a Shankh?

Shank or Conch is the shell of a large sea snail species under Turbinella pyrum mostly found in the Indian Ocean.

Shankh and Spiritual Significance

According to Hinduism, the Conch or Shankh is associated with Maha Vishnu and is one of his attributes. The shankha or shankhu is usually in his left upper hand along with chakra, gadha and Padma. Sometimes the Shankh is also personified as the Shankhapurusha, a warrior subordinate figure that can be seen in multiple Maha Vishnu Temples in India.

It is also found in the Shaligram, which again is a sacred artifact within Vaishnavism just like the rudraksha of Shaivism. The conch was also part of the official emblems of various kingdoms including the Travancore Kingdom of Kerala which has been adopted by the government of Kerala.

Shankhu has also been part of the emblems of cultures of various Polynesian countries as well.

Many of the Far East countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Bali etc were under the Chola dynasty's rule, and embraced Hinduism during the medieval ages.

In Buddhist traditions, the Shankh symbolizes the "voice of Buddha" representing the dissemination of teachings far and wide.

Across cultures, the conch signifies clarity, purity, and a call to action. It is also a vastu item.

Types of Shankhu for Home

1) Dakshinavarti Shankh or Valampiri Shankh

The Dakshinavarti Shankh is regarded as one of the most auspicious Conchs ever, it is often associated with wealth, prosperity, and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

It is said to represent the sun, light, and positive energy and is mostly kept for worship and not blown.

Its presence in the home is believed to attract fortune and harmony according to Vastu Shastra for Homes.

What makes Dakshinavarti Shankh different is that it has spirals to the right (clockwise), which is why it is also called "Valampiri" (right-handed conch), which is quite rare.

How is this considered to be right-handed? Simple because of the handyness or the way it is held where the coiling is measured with the spout of the shell pointing upwards.

Dakshinavarti Shankh or Valampiri Shankh placement as per Vastu

Shankhu Placement in Vastu: It should ideally be placed in the north or northeast direction for maximum benefits.

Dakshinavarti Shankh or Valampiri Shankh Price : Rs 300 to Rs 2,400

( cost depends on sizes and authenticity)

2) Vamavarti Shankh

The more common type of Shankh available in India, Vamavarti shankhu or conch has spirals that run anti clockwise towards left. It is said to represent the polar opposite of valampiri which is the moon. The shankh is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals for its melodious sound.

A blowing shankh, during pujas Vamavarti is blown to purify the atmosphere and ward off negative energies.

Vamavarti Shankh Price: Rs 900 and above

3) Ganesh Shankh

Ganesh Shankh is a rare and uniquely shaped conch that resembles the trunk of Lord Ganesha or Ganapati. It is believed that the Shankhu the removal of obstacles and the bestowing of success, wisdom, and good fortune.

According to Hindu beliefs, keeping a Ganesh Shankh in the home invokes the presence of Lord Ganesha and protects the household from negativity.

What makes Ganesha Shankhu unique is that it resembles the form of Lord Ganesha with a prominent trunk-like projection, typically white or off-white, symbolizing purity.

Ganesh Shankh price: Rs 450 to Rs 550

4) Moti Shankh

The Moti Shankh (Pearl Conch) is a unique and sacred conch shell revered for its radiant beauty and spiritual significance.

Typically smaller than other types of Shankhs, it is often used as a decorative or spiritual item and is distinguished by its smooth, glossy, and pearl like surface.

Infact, Moti Shankh is the most vastu compliant of all, and is often placed in puja rooms or on altars to enhance spiritual power.

Vastu Corrections with Moti Shankh

It is an effective remedy for vastu doshas (imbalances) and is often placed in the north or northeast corner for maximum benefit. Water stored in the Moti Shankh is sprinkled around the house for purification.

Moti Shankh Price: Starts at Rs 550

To conclude, whether you seek its divine blessings or admire its artistic allure, incorporating a Shankh in your home can transform your space into a sanctuary of positivity and beauty.