POOJA SHANKH AND BRASS TORTOISE STAND | POOJA CONCH | TORTOISE SHAPE SHANKH HOLDER | POOJA SAMAGRI | BLOWING SHANKH

Pooja, also known as puja, is a Hindu ritualistic worship or offering performed to honor and show reverence to deities, ancestors, or divine entities. Blowing a Shankh (also spelled as Shankha or Conch) is a common practice during Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals. Here's some information about the significance and practice of blowing Shankh in Pooja: 

1. Shankh: A Shankh is a conch shell, typically from the species Turbinella pyrum, and holds great importance in Hindu culture and religious traditions. It is considered a sacred emblem of Lord Vishnu and is associated with divine connotations.

2. Symbolism: The Shankh is associated with the cosmic sound of creation, known as the "Om" or "Aum." It is believed that blowing the Shankh produces the primordial sound that symbolizes the beginning of creation and awakens the divine energies. The sound is said to purify the surroundings and invoke positive vibrations.

3. Ritual Use: Blowing the Shankh is a common ritualistic practice in various Hindu ceremonies, including Pooja. It is often performed at the beginning or conclusion of religious rituals, as well as during the Aarti (ceremonial waving of a lamp) or while offering prayers to deities.

4. Procedure: To blow the Shankh during Pooja, the devotee holds the shell in their hand, usually with the spire pointing upwards. They then place their fingers around the opening of the Shankh, leaving a small gap. By blowing into the gap, the devotee creates a resonating sound. The technique varies, but it typically involves blowing forcefully and continuously to produce a loud and distinct sound.

5. Symbolic Benefits: Blowing the Shankh is believed to have several symbolic benefits and spiritual effects. It is thought to purify the environment by dispelling negative energies and promoting positive vibrations. The sound of the Shankh is said to awaken spiritual awareness and help in concentration and meditation. It is also considered auspicious and brings blessings, prosperity, and divine grace.

6. Significance in Hindu Mythology: In Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities, is often depicted holding a Shankh. The Shankh is associated with his divine conch called Panchajanya, which possesses great power. It is believed that blowing a Shankh replicates the sacred sound produced by Lord Vishnu's conch and invokes his presence and blessings.