Vishwakarma Day: Felicitations and the Story Behind
Vishwakarma Day: Commemoration to the Divine Architect and Master Craftsman
On the auspicious occasion of Vishwakarma Day today, we honour Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect and esteemed craftsman, revered across the expanse of Hindu traditions and by the Ramgarhia Sikh community. He is celebrated for his pivotal role alongside Lord Brahma in the crafting of the universe, holding a venerated position within the Hindu pantheon.
One Temple of Brahma, Myriad of Lord Vishwakarma
In contrast to Lord Brahma, who, due to a historical and mythological curse, is worshipped primarily at his lone shrine in Pushkar near Ajmer, Rajasthan, shrines and temples dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma are found in abundance across India and even overseas. This widespread reverence pays homage to his status as the architect of the cosmos and the mastermind behind the elaborate designs of mythological structures and divine weaponry.
More than just an aide of Brahma ji
Lord Vishwakarma's role in the creation of the universe is far more than that of an aide; he is adored as the architect of the cosmos itself and the brilliant force behind the intricate designs of mythological structures and divine armaments. In the Hindu belief system, Lord Vishwakarma stands as a singular figure, encapsulating the sacred act of creation as well as the pragmatic talents of artisans and craftspeople. His legacy establishes a profound link between the celestial and the earthly realms, rendering the tools and efforts of daily craftsmanship as venerable as the rituals of the divine.
Story of Lord Vishwakarma
Origin: Lord Vishwakarma is described in various Hindu scriptures. He is considered to be the son of Brahma, the creator god, in some texts, while others describe him as being born of the water (Prabhas) and the Rig Veda refers to him as the ultimate craftsman of the universe.
Creations: He is attributed with creating many magnificent things, including the palaces of gods in heaven, the weapon of Indra (the Vajra), and the town of Dwarka where Lord Krishna ruled, after the great battle of Mahabharat. His expertise is not limited to buildings and weapons but extends to all sorts of divine artifacts.
Followers of Lord Vishwakarma:
Lord Vishwakarma is especially revered by craftsmen, artisans, engineers, architects, and workers in related fields. In many parts of India, he is the patron deity of these professions.
His followers include a broad spectrum of workers from various trades, who look up to him as a source of inspiration for creativity, skill, and dedication to craftsmanship.
Vishwakarma Day Celebration:
Date: Vishwakarma Day, also known as Vishwakarma Puja, is celebrated every year on the day after Diwali, particularly in eastern India and in parts of North India. The date corresponds to the Gregorian calendar month of October or November. Some of the his followers, who follow the solar calendar, celebrated it on September 17 this year.
Rituals: The celebration involves the worship of Lord Vishwakarma and the tools used in various trades. Workers clean and decorate their tools and workplaces. The tools are then worshipped, a ritual that symbolises a prayer for smooth and safe functioning and success in their respective fields.
Community Aspect: The day is also marked by community gatherings, feasts, and cultural events. Artisans and craftsmen take a day off from work to celebrate the occasion, reflecting upon their skills and the dignity of their labour.
Significance in Modern Times:
Dignity of Labour and Craftsmanship: Vishwakarma Day serves as a reminder of the importance of dignity in labour and the irreplaceable value of craftsmanship. It highlights the respect and recognition that should be accorded to those who work with their hands and create with their skills.
Relevance in the Age of Machines: In an era dominated by machines and mass production, Vishwakarma Day underlines the unique qualities of human craftsmanship. It emphasizes that the creativity, attention to detail, and personal touch offered by human artisans cannot be replicated by machines.
Honouring Artisans and Craftsmen
The celebration of Vishwakarma Day is not only a tribute to a divine figure but also a recognition of the human spirit of creation, innovation, and the timeless value of skilled labour. It's a day that honours the skills that build societies and preserve traditions, reminding us that while technology may evolve, the essence of craftsmanship and human ingenuity remains invaluable and irreplaceable.
