Vishwakarma Puja: Honoring the Divine Architect

The auspicious festival of Vishwakarma Puja, also known as Vishwakarma Jayanti or Bhadra Sankranti, is a time of joy and reverence celebrated across the country. This year, it falls on September 17, 2022, marking a day dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma, the celestial architect. Widespread Observance Vishwakarma Puja is particularly popular in states like West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Factory and shop owners participate in the festivities, conducting pujas to seek the blessings of Lord Vishwakarma for excellence in their endeavors. In a unique tradition, tools and machines are also worshipped alongside the idol of the divine architect. A Divine Creator and Innovator This day commemorates the birth of Lord Vishwakarma, renowned for constructing the sacred city of Dwarka, where Lord Krishna ruled. He’s also credited with crafting remarkable weapons for gods, including Lord Shiva’s Trishul, Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra, King Ravana’s Pushpaka Vimana, and Indra’s Vajra. Historical Significance In Hindu scriptures, Vishwakarma is referred to as ‘swayambhu’ or the self-manifested. He’s regarded as the creator of all material entities in the universe and the mastermind behind the chariots, palaces, and weaponry of deities. Engineers, designers, architects, craftsmen, and sculptors pay homage to Lord Vishwakarma every year on Kanya Sankranti. Legendary Creations According to legend, Vishwakarma built the Pushpak Vimana and Swarna Lanka for Ravana, as recounted in the epic Ramayana. He’s also credited with constructing Dwarka, Lord Krishna’s city, and Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas, as described in the epic Mahabharata. Religious Significance Vishwakarma Puja holds immense importance in Hinduism. Unlike many other festivals, it spans just one day, determined by the Solar calendar, whereas most other festivals follow the Lunar calendar. This uniqueness adds to the special reverence associated with Vishwakarma Puja.