What is Shaligram stone? Its Benefits, power and identification

Shrouded in spiritual significance, the Shaligram stone is a sacred fossilized ammonite found in  the banks of Kali Gandaki River, remote northern region of Nepal, These Shaligram stones from Nepal are considered pure and the embodiment of Lord Vishnu and is considered to be an integral part of many rituals.  They are kept mainly in temples but can also be kept in homes as well but extreme cautious should be maintained in handling the stones as they possess immense powers.

It is believed shaligram ji acts as a magnet and can attract divine powers and hence it is stored beneath the idols of gods or goddesses.

What is Shaligram stone as per Puranas?

Vishnu Purana

Vishnu Purana is perhaps the major puranas that discuss extensively about this wonder stone and its attributes about Lord Vishnu.  It also describes the significance and methods of worshiping Shaligram stones.

Padma Purana

Padma Purana details the worship of Shaligram stones and the rituals involved in their worship. The Padma Purana emphasizes the importance of obtaining Shaligram stones from the Gandaki River and the merit associated with their worship.

Skanda Purana

Skanda Purana majorly focuses on the life of Lord Skanda (Muruga) also contains reference to Shaligram Stones.  It also emboldens the significance of Shaligram worship.

Origins and Types of Shaligram:

The Shaligram stone is primarily picked from the banks of Gandaki River, near the Muktinath temple. This ancient river is hailed for its association with Lord Vishnu.  Shaligram pathar come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, with each type having its own unique significance. Some of the popular types include Damodar, Lakshminarayan, and Ananta.

Shaligram Stone Benefits:

• Divine Connection: Worshiping the Shaligram stone is believed to establish a direct connection with Lord Vishnu, bringing divine blessings and protection. 

• Spiritual Growth: Regular puja with the Shaligram stone is said to enhance spiritual growth, promoting inner peace and tranquility.

• Removal of Doshas: Shaligram worship is believed to remove various doshas, including financial hurdles, health issues, and obstacles in one's life.

• Protection from Negative Energies: The sacred vibrations of the Shaligram stone are thought to shield devotees from negative energies and influences.

• Fulfillment of Desires: Devotees believe that sincere worship of Shaligram fulfills desires and brings prosperity to one's life.

Varieties of Shaligrams and its benefits

Shaligram stones come in various varieties, each with its own unique characteristics and associated benefits. Devotees often choose specific types of Shaligram stones based on their individual spiritual needs and preferences. Here are some common varieties and their respective benefits:

Damodar Shaligram:

Appearance: Identified by a circular impression resembling a rope (Damodar).

Benefits: Worshipping Damodar Shaligram is believed to bring blessings for marital harmony, family well-being, and protection against negative energies.

Lakshminarayan Shaligram:

Appearance: Features an impression resembling a chakra and conch shell.

Benefits: This Shaligram is associated with wealth, prosperity, and overall financial well-being. Devotees believe that it attracts the blessings of both Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Ananta Shaligram:

Appearance: Identified by multiple impressions resembling a serpent.

Benefits: Ananta Shaligram is considered auspicious for those seeking protection, stability, and relief

from the fear of snakes or serpent-related afflictions.

Sudarshan Shaligram:

Appearance: Exhibits a distinct chakra or discus impression.

Benefits: Worshiping Sudarshan Shaligram is believed to provide divine protection, remove obstacles, and promote overall well-being.

Nrisimha Shaligram:

Appearance: Features a clear impression resembling the face of Lord Nrisimha.

Benefits: Devotees believe that Nrisimha Shaligram grants courage, protection from enemies, and helps overcome fears.

Hayagriva Shaligram:

Appearance: Characterized by an impression resembling the face of Lord Hayagriva (horse-headed form of Vishnu).

Benefits: Worshipping Hayagriva Shaligram is believed to enhance knowledge, wisdom, and academic success.

Varaha Shaligram:

Appearance: Features the impression of Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu.

Benefits: Varaha Shaligram is associated with protection from natural calamities, relief from land-related issues, and overall well-being.

Govardhan Shila:

Appearance: Represents the sacred Govardhan Hill.

Benefits: Devotees believe that Govardhan Shila brings blessings for prosperity, agricultural success, and protection of livestock.

Sudarshan Shaligram is considered beneficial and can be kept in homes.  It is extremely powerful in controlling diseases, thefts, and accidents.  It also brings peace and harmony in the house.

Can I keep Shaligram at home?

Saligram Sila can be kept at home provided  we follow some strict personal discipline and  is given daily pujas.  Important thing is, you should receive it from a  bonafide guru.  Worshippers say non adherence to daily rituals  can create trouble for us.  The stone should not have any scratches or is broken.  The pooja is very simple and can be done using pure water and tulsi leaves.  If the stone is bigger than the size of your palm, it should not be kept at home but should be donated to any  Shaligram temple or mutt.

The important things that should be considered to start Shaligram Shila puja in home are:

1. We should worship Shaligram daily.  If unable, any of his family members should take up the task or hand it over to any one who can continue this.
2. Anyone who cannot make pooja regularly can opt to visit Shaligram temple regularly.
3. One should be fully vegetarian.
4. Naivedyam is a must after Shaligram puja.
5. Never keep the stone on the floor, even on a cloth. If at all you have to keep them down, place them on a clean wooden surface.

Because of these strict regulations, some people avoid keeping Shaligram stone at home.

Shaligram Puja Vidhi:

Shaligram puja requires a devoted heart and adherence to a specific set of rituals. Here is a simplified Shaligram puja vidhi.

• Purification: Begin by purifying yourself and the surroundings where the puja will take place.

• Placement: Place the Shaligram stone on a clean and sacred platform.

• Offerings: Offer flowers, incense, and water to the Shaligram, expressing devotion and gratitude.

• Mantras: Chant Vishnu mantras or specific Shaligram mantras to invoke divine energy.

• Aarti: Conclude the puja with an aarti, rotating a lit lamp in a circular motion around the Shaligram.

Points to Take Care in Handling Shaligram:

• Clean Hands: Always ensure that your hands are clean before handling the Shaligram stone.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents on the shaligram mala or stones,  as it may damage its sacred energy.

• Respectful Handling: Treat the Shaligram with utmost respect, avoiding any disrespectful behavior or thoughts during its worship.

Shaligram stone price

Shaligram stone prices can vary from a few thousand rupees to lakhs, depending on their characteristics.  Smaller stones are commonly available and hence less expensive.  Larger or rarer stone prices may command lakhs.

If you are considering purchasing a Shaligram stone, it is advisable to buy from reputable sellers who specialize in religious artifacts. Stones sourced from Nepal are considered particularly precious. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize authenticity and quality when making your purchase.

You can also buy the authentic stones from Subhayogam, who has a wide collection of pure and well maintained stones, sourced directly from the river banks of Gandaki.

Doshas Associated with Wrong Handling:

• Mishandling or disrespecting the Shaligram stone may lead to an accumulation of negative energy and spiritual stagnation. 

• Disrespecting the stone may attract many obstacles in life. 

• Never clean the stone with chemicals or cleaning agents. It may deteriorate the positive and sacred vibrations associated with Shaligram stone.

• Worship with utmost concentration and bhakthi.  Negative thoughts or disrespectful behavior during puja may lead to strained relations in the family.

Precautions

• Clean Hands: Always ensure that your hands are clean before handling the Shaligram stone.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents on the Shaligram, as they may damage its sacred energy.

• Respectful Handling: Treat the Shaligram with utmost respect, avoiding any disrespectful behavior or thoughts during its worship.

• Follow Puja Vidhi: Adhere to the prescribed puja vidhi (rituals) for Shaligram worship to ensure the sanctity of the process.

Conclusion:

The Shaligram stone is not just a fossil; it is a divine manifestation that carries immense spiritual significance. By understanding its origins, types, benefits, and proper handling, devotees can embark on a transformative journey of spiritual growth and divine connection through the sacred practice of Shaligram puja. As the Gandaki River Shaligram continues to gift these sacred stones to the world, the tradition of worshiping Shaligram remains an enduring testament to the profound spirituality embedded in Hindu culture.