Conch Shell Bangles - Kolkata
Conch is a generic name for all types and sizes of shells obtained from the sea. This sea-dwelling mollusk bears a powerful symbolism in every religion. Hence its application in various forms is found since the ancient period till present civilization. In the world, the majority of conches are found in Indo pacific oceans, especially in the Caribbean region. Here while the queen conches are found in the seagrass spread in their beds, other types are usually formed in warm tropic water.
Tracing back to history, conch has been used in parts of Asia for decoration in religious ceremonies. Evidence of its usage as containers for auspicious oils and medicines during the Indus Valley Civilization was found from various sites. In Tibet, while the shells are blown in Buddhist rituals, in Japan, it is used for spiritual purposes, and Korea for military fanfares. According to legends, India has specialized in trumpet and original horn making since 2000 years back. Hence these products and many other conch shells by-products were exported to Egypt, Greece, and other parts of the world. Now, conch shell business is majorly practiced in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Mysore, Bellary, Anantapur, Hyderabad, Kathiawar, Kuddapa, and Kurnool. It is believed that a natural vibration inside the shell creates a gentle humming sound that can be heard when placed close to one’s ear. Hindus consider this to be their sacred syllable ‘Aum’.
Due to its immense availability, creativity stroke it in the form of crafting, a designing method practiced in India for ages. They are thus used in the making of artistic utility items like decorative products, jewelry, religious instruments and are also suitable for load-bearing ceramics, building construction, aerospace engineering, and computer industry applications. The powdered form of these shells is used as color as well as an ingredient in certain medicines. Due to the queen shell’s property of strength and thickness that is almost 1000 times than other varieties, wide application of the material is seen in the construction field. On the religious front, the jewelry collection from the type includes varieties of necklaces, clips, bracelets, bangles, etc. Lokenath Sankha Shilpagar is a place where conch shell bangles are made. Artisans from this factory carve intricate designs on bangles to keep this traditional art alive.
