The blowing of the conch (Shankha) during the Mahabharata war at Kurukshetra is laden with rich symbolism and significant meanings:
Divine Call to Battle:
The conch shells were blown at the start of the battle,
signifying the commencement of the epic war. This act served as a divine call
to arms, preparing the warriors for the great conflict ahead. It marked the
transition from peace to war and was a signal that the battle was about to
begin.
Moral and Psychological Significance:
The sound of the conch is believed to dispel negativity and
fear. When Krishna blew his conch, Panchajanya, it was not merely a physical
sound but a psychological and moral boost to the Pandavas. It filled them with
courage and righteousness, reinforcing their resolve to fight for dharma
(justice).
Spiritual and Cosmic Symbolism:
In Hinduism, the conch is associated with the sacred
syllable "Om," which is the primordial sound of creation. The blowing
of the conch can be seen as a reminder of the cosmic order and the divine
purpose behind the war. It represents the voice of the divine, aligning the
battle with the cosmic laws of dharma.
Heralding a Righteous Cause:
The conches of different warriors had specific names and
were often associated with certain virtues. For example, Arjuna's conch,
Devadatta, symbolized his divine mission, while Bhima's conch, Paundra,
represented his immense strength and valor. The act of blowing these conches
heralded the righteous cause for which they were fighting.
Auspiciousness and Purification:
The sound of the conch is considered auspicious and
purifying. It was believed to cleanse the atmosphere of evil influences and
bring in positive energies. This aspect of purification was crucial before the
onset of the war, creating a sanctified battlefield.
Declaration of Intent:
The blowing of the conch by each warrior was also a personal
declaration of their readiness and intent to fight. It was a ritualistic way of
affirming their commitment to the war, signaling their preparedness and
determination.
Unity and Solidarity:
When the Pandavas and their allies blew their conches in
unison, it represented unity and solidarity among the righteous warriors. It
was a collective affirmation of their shared purpose and mutual support in the
face of the Kauravas' forces.
In summary, the blowing of the conch in the Mahabharata war
is a multifaceted symbol that embodies the transition from peace to war, moral
and psychological fortification, spiritual and cosmic alignment, declaration of
righteous intent, auspiciousness, purification, and unity. This act is deeply
embedded in the cultural and spiritual ethos of the epic, reflecting the
profound significance of sound and ritual in conveying deeper truths and
motivating warriors on the battlefield.