- Parasol – A handheld collapsible sunshade.
- A pair of golden fish.
- A treasure vase.
- Lotus
- Right turning conch
- Srivatsa (endless knot)
- Banner of victory
- Wheel of Dharma.
Parasol (Chattra): The parasol represents protection and
spiritual authority. In ancient times, it was a symbol of royalty and
protection from harmful influences. Metaphorically, it signifies the protection
of the teachings of the Buddha or the divine protection of devotees.
Pair of Golden Fish (Sankha): The pair of golden fish
symbolizes fertility, abundance, and liberation. Fish are considered auspicious
in Hindu culture, and they represent freedom from the cycle of birth and
rebirth (samsara) as they move freely in water.
Treasure Vase (Kalasha): The treasure vase symbolizes
wealth, abundance, and prosperity. It represents the inexhaustible treasures of
spiritual wealth, including virtues, merits, and wisdom. The vase is often
depicted overflowing with jewels, symbolizing the abundance of spiritual
blessings.
Lotus (Padma): The lotus symbolizes purity, enlightenment,
and spiritual growth. Despite growing in muddy waters, the lotus rises above
the muck and blooms beautifully, representing the journey from darkness to
light and the attainment of enlightenment.
Right-Turning Conch Shell (Shankha): The right-turning conch
shell represents the sacred sound of the universe, symbolizing the cosmic sound
of creation (Om). It is also associated with victory, auspiciousness, and the
spreading of the teachings of dharma.
Srivatsa (Endless Knot): Srivatsa, also known as the endless
knot, is a symbol of infinity, interconnectedness, and the endless cycle of
life. It represents the intertwining of wisdom and compassion, as well as the
interconnectedness of all phenomena in the universe.
Victory Banner (Dhvaja): The victory banner symbolizes
triumph over obstacles, negativity, and ignorance. It represents the victory of
wisdom (jnana) over ignorance (avidya) and the triumph of enlightenment over
the darkness of delusion.
Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra): The wheel of dharma
symbolizes the teachings of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment. It
represents the cycle of existence, the eternal nature of the dharma, and the
continuous unfolding of spiritual truths.
These Ashtamangala symbols are often used in rituals,
ceremonies, and religious art to invoke blessings, protection, and prosperity.
They serve as reminders of spiritual principles and guide practitioners on the
path towards spiritual realization and liberation.