Can Women Blow Shankh? This question often creates confusion in many Indian households. In Hindu rituals, the sound of the conch (shankh) is considered extremely pure and auspicious. It is believed to cleanse the environment, remove negativity and please Goddess Lakshmi. Yet in several families, women are stopped from blowing the shankh, while in others, women perform shankhnaad daily. Here’s what the scriptures truly say.
Holy Texts Do Not Forbid Women from Blowing the Shankh
Across all primary Vedic scriptures, there is no mention that women cannot blow the shankh. Even the Agni Purana clearly states that the one who blows the conch gets rid of sins, yet it never specifies any gender-based restriction. No verse, condition or instruction says only men may blow the shankh. Simply put, Hindu scripture does not support any form of gender discrimination in this practice.
Cultural Beliefs, Not Religion, Created This Notion
In some North Indian households, an old folk belief holds that the shankh is the brother of Goddess Lakshmi and should therefore not be blown in the sister’s home. Historically, the conch was also used as a war signal, which is why some associated it with men. Many people also believe the sound is too strong for women. However, these ideas are purely cultural traditions and not based on Vedic scriptures. There is no religious rule that bans women from blowing the shankh.
Women Lead Conch-Blowing Traditions Across India
- In South India—especially in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh—women blow the shankh daily in Vaishnav and Shaiva temples.
- During Durga Puja and Kali Puja in Bengal, women begin the rituals with sacred shankhnaad.
- At the famous Jagannath Puri temple in Odisha, women play the conch during kirtans.
- In all ISKCON temples worldwide, women blow large conches as part of daily worship.
- In many Vaishnav traditions, women blowing the shankh is considered not just allowed, but essential.
Purity and Cleanliness Matter in All Rituals
While there is no restriction on women, two standard rules apply to all: The conch should be blown only after ensuring personal and ritual purity. Women should avoid blowing the shankh during menstruation. The shankh must always be kept clean and should be used only for sacred purposes.