Geethartha Chinthane 64: Significance of Shankhanada during Sandhyakala

The conch (Shankha) holds great significance. “Sham” means happiness, and “Kha” means sky, signifying that the conch is a universal source of happiness. According to the saying “Apavithrah Pavitroo Va Sarvavastham Gatopi Va,” the sound of the conch (Shankhanada) can cleanse sins. The presence of divine beings, including Goddess Lakshmi, resides in the conch.

The Balamuri conch is particularly special. There is an age-old tradition where women perform Shankhanada in every corner of the house during Sandhyakala (dusk). The conch must be blown at this time. Night is considered the time of Asuras (demons), while day belongs to the Devas (gods). The Devas reside in the light, and the Asuras in the dark.

Before night falls and the Asuras come, the conch should be blown in the evening to prevent their arrival. It is crucial to stop them before they come, as it becomes difficult to drive them away once they arrive. Illnesses are a good metaphor for this; preventing a disease is much easier than curing it after it strikes.

It is believed that the Lord’s wish is for deities to dwell in the conch and bless those who revere it (Shankhe Tishthanti Viprendra Tasmaat Shankham Prapujayet). When Lord Krishna himself blew the conch, it signified the grace and blessings of all deities.

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