Why Shakha or conch shell, is blown in Hindu rituals and the different types of Shankhas

In Hindu mythology, Shankha is also used synonymously with wisdom and spirituality and is referred to as the preserver of Lord Vishnu. Shankha is not just a ritualistic item; it is frequently connected with divine presence, victory, and prosperity.

As per Hindu mythology, the Shankh (conch shell) holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that after emerging from the cosmic ocean, the Shankh was entrusted to Lord Vishnu, symbolizing his divine authority and protection. Some ancient texts also mention that the Shankh was placed alongside Goddess Lakshmi, his divine consort. In fact, the Shankh is revered as the abode of Goddess Lakshmi herself, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. Blowing the conch is not merely a ritual; it is believed to invoke her blessings and drive away negative energies, making it a powerful symbol of purity and abundance in Hindu tradition

The conch sound is said to echo "om," the universal vibration that signals the birth of the universe. Blowing the Shankha dispels negative forces and cleanses the atmosphere, inducing a field of spiritual resonance.

In the Rig Veda, Shankha is referred to as the "cosmic conch shell" and is also linked with the god Varuna, the ruler of the waters. According to the Yajur Veda, the Shankha is utilized in various rituals and ceremonies. Blown to signal the start and end of rituals, it is also utilized for cleansing the sacrificial ground. Possessing the ability to repel evil spirits and negative forces, the Atharva Veda links the Shankha with healing and safety. It is also employed in various medicinal rituals, being mostly connected with several gods and goddesses possessing different auspicious attributes.

Blowing the Shankha enhances the respiratory muscles, increases lung capacity, and clears the sinuses. The vibration produced by the conch shell is said to stimulate the vagus nerve, which governs vital body functions like digestion and heart rate and even stress levels.

Dakshinavarti Shankha—rare and linked to goddess Lakshmi frequently, said to attract prosperity.
Moti Shankha—It is said to be very rare and precious, having enormous spiritual powers.
Vamavarti Shankha—it is left-twisted and also used in rituals and temples by priests.

Panchajanya Shankha—It is the Shankha of Lord Vishnu and is said to possess the ability to control the five elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air, and ether).

One would be shocked to know that Shankha even has a spiritual meaning in Buddhism, representing the ceaseless, unending progress of the dharma. The Mayans and Aztecs also used conch shells as trumpets during religious ceremonies, and the Indigenous people of North America used them for both musical and ceremonial purposes.