Worshipping Tools of the Trade: Mythology and Rituals of Vishwakarma Puja

Lord Vishwakarma is known to be the architect of our world and all creations. As per mythological references it is believed that Lord Brahma Ji handed over the responsibility of adorning and putting the world into systematic order to Lord Vishwakarma. Lord Brahma had full faith in the art and creation powers of Lord Vishwakarma. 

Mythology: 

It is believed that when Brahma Ji created this nature and this universe, it was in the shape of an egg, through which the creation emerged. He then placed his creation on Sheshnaag, due to which every time Sheshnaag would move, there was destruction in the creation of Lord Brahma. Troubled by this, Lord Brahma asked for a solution from Lord Vishwakarma. In his response he put the Meru Parvat in water to create a balance. Lord Brahma was impressed by this craft and precision. Ever since then Lord Vishwakarma has been acknowledged as the chief architect and the ‘first engineer’ to ever exist. It is believed that every tool, machinery, etc is his blessing. 

Lord Vishwakarma has been revered as the ‘Dev of the Devtas’ in the first part of Vishnu Puran. In various holy texts, his five ‘swaroops’ (manifestations) have been mentioned. These ‘swaroops’ are as follows: 

• Virat Vishwakarma 
• Dharma Vanshi Vishwakarma 
• Angira Vanshi Vishwakarma
• Sudhanva Vishwakarma 
• Bhrigu Vanshi Vishwakarma 

According to the Hindu Calendar, Puja of Lord Vishwakarma is carried out on Kanya Sankranti or Bhadra Sankranti. The divine architect of the world is worshipped on this day known as Vishwakarma Jayanti. This year, 2024, Vishwakarma Jayanti will be observed on the 16th of September. Lord Vishwakarma is worshipped by all but specially by whose livelihood is associated and dependent upon mechanics, tools and construction. People from all walks of life have the involvement of certain tools or gadgets in their line of work in one way or the other. Artisans, craftsperson, architects, hold this day in high reverence. During the puja, people offer prayers to their tools, factories, places of work, machinery etc and look forward to work filled with prosperity and growth.  

Puja Rituals: 

• Whenever we offer our prayers to any deity or lord, the right way to begin a puja must be to first talk about the deity. Speak the deity’s praises and talk about their glory. Similarly for Vishwakarma Puja, one must begin by talking about the lord and his craftsmanship. 
• Lord Vishwakarma is honoured for the construction of Amravati for Indra, Lanka Puri for Lord Shankar on Mount Trikoot, Hastinapur, Dwarka Mahal for Shri Krishna. 
• The first step is doing the panchang devta puja, which are Prithvi, Gauri, Ganesh, Kalash and Navgrah. 
• Following this Lord Vishwakarma is worshipped, either through his idol or picture. While worshipping, the Aavanhan and Dhyan Mantra of Lord Vishwakarma are chanted. Post these offerings in the form of flowers, dhoop, deep, chandan, vastra, Prasad, dakshina etc are made. 
• After the offering to the lord, prayers are done again. 
• The next step is to worship all the mechanical items of the place, be it in a factory or a workshop etc. 
• On this day all of these items are offered prayers and not used. 

This is how the chief architect of the world is worshipped and honoured on this day. Not only on Vishwakarma Jayanti, but as a matter of fact we must note that, during all days we must treat our tools and items of work with utmost honour and respect. The way we treat them is what reflects in our work and progress. 

We hope you found this article on Vishwakarma Day helpful. For much information about the India and its culture, traditions and festivals, stay tuned to Alight India.