Vishwakarma Puja, a significant celebration in India, is just around the corner. This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma, known as the divine engineer and creator of the world. On this occasion, people worship their tools, equipment, and machinery, seeking blessings for success and prosperity.
Lord Vishwakarma's birth is a fascinating story, as he emerged from the churning of the ocean, Samudra Manthan, along with other precious entities. He is the son of Lord Brahma and is credited with crafting everything in the universe. Among his notable achievements is the construction of the legendary city of Dwarka, where Lord Krishna ruled.
Vishwakarma Puja falls on Kanya Sankranti, which typically occurs between September 16 to 18, marking the last day of the Hindu month of Bhado. This year, Vishwakarma Puja is observed on September 17 (Sunday).
Here are some essential traditions associated with Vishwakarma Puja:
1. Acquiring New Tools and Equipment: Offices and factories put special emphasis on refreshing and upgrading their workspaces. Tools and machinery are meticulously cleaned, and new ones are acquired. Prayers are offered to Lord Vishwakarma, seeking good fortune and luck in work.
2. Worship of Lord Vishwakarma: An idol of Lord Vishwakarma is brought into the workplace, which is cleaned and adorned for the occasion. Office workers pray for success and prosperity, offering fruits, sweets, and other offerings to the divine engineer. An aarti, or ritual prayer, is performed to seek blessings.
3. Vehicle Worship: Lord Vishwakarma is revered as the divine architect of machinery, tools, and equipment. Many people extend this reverence to their vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and buses, praying for safe travels throughout the year.
4. Avoidance of Office Tools: It is customary not to use office tools and equipment on this day. Consequently, many factories organize pujas, turning the day into a celebration marked by festivities and communal meals.
5. Fasting: In honor of Lord Vishwakarma, some individuals observe a day-long fast. The fast is concluded after performing the puja at the end of the day, symbolizing devotion and reverence.
Vishwakarma Puja is not just a religious observance; it also celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity that are integral to human endeavors. It is a time for reflection on the importance of tools, machinery, and engineering in our daily lives, as well as an opportunity to seek blessings for a prosperous and successful future.
