Hindus have ashtamangala (set of eight auspicious symbols) to invoke positive energy and good fortune.
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What is Ashtamangla?
As name suggest, this term is amalgamation of two terms – ashta (eight) and mangla (auspicious). These symbols are revered at auspicious occasions and events like wedding, Muhurat and even used in art also.
Here, is the list of Ashtamangala symbols as follows :
Shankh (conch shell)
The Shankha is an auspicious symbol in Hinduism. We have covered the significance of the Shankha in our previous blog on sound.
Historically speaking, the sound of the Shankha was used as a trumpet to declare important events such as the crowning of kings, aarti, declarations and during wars, among many other things. It is mentioned in the great epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. In the Ramayana, the brothers of Lord Rama, Bharat and Shatrughan, are considered the human forms of Panchajanya (the Shankha of Lord Vishnu) and the mace. In the Mahabharata, the Shankha was blown to declare the beginning and end of each day during the war. As per Vedas, Conch makes sound of Aum.
The Shankha is one of the Ashtamangala symbols, representing purity, truth and Dharma in Hinduism. It teaches us to emerge from the slumber of darkness and ignorance with knowledge and wisdom.
Not only this, Conch teaches us to be untouched with worldly attachments and stay aligned to the supreme.
Padma (Lotus)

The Padma is the second important symbol in the list of Ashtamangala. Padma is the Hindi term for lotus. We have explained the lotus and its significance in Hinduism in detail in our previous blog on the lotus.
The lotus blooms in muddy water and stands out without a single strain of mud on it. This flower is the national flower of India. Do you know why? Let me answer this for you. The lotus guides us to live life among our fellow mates, family, peers, and society without being affected by their viewpoints and words, just like the lotus. We should always strive for the best opportunities and keep shining on the stage of life.
Wonder why so many Hindu gods are associated with the lotus? It is because of its purity, beauty and fertility. Lord Vishnu carries a lotus in one hand and is called Padma Pankaj (soft hands like a lotus) and Pankaj Nayan (eyes like a lotus, seeing beyond sorrows and pains). The lotus is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, who is often depicted sitting on it. Additionally, Goddess Saraswati sits on a white lotus, symbolizing purity, knowledge, truth and light.
Thus, the lotus represents the purification of body, speech, and mind. Its roots signify the soul’s journey from the primeval mud of materialism, through the waters of experience, and ultimately rising above into the bright sunshine of enlightenment.
Dharma chakra (wheel)
The Dharma Chakra, or the wheel of Dharma, is one of the eight Ashtamangala symbols in Hinduism. It is depicted with eight spokes, each representing a different aspect of the path to wisdom, truth and perfection:
- Right understanding
- Right thought
- Right speech
- Right action
- Right livelihood
- Right effort
- Right mindfulness
- Right concentration
If you wish to explore more on it, you can read in detail the significance and meaning of Dharma in Snatana Dharma in detail in our previous blog on Dharma.
Chatra (Umbrella)

In Hinduism, the Chatra is symbolized by the umbrella, which serves the important function of casting a shadow of protection. According to ancient texts, it symbolizes protection and royalty, and is a significant part of the eight symbols of Ashtamangala.
The parasol is not only used in ceremonies such as investiture ceremonies and to cover deities in temples, but also to shield the deity and their chariot during processions. During weddings, it covers the groom on his horse. Additionally, Lord Vamana carried a parasol to King Bali, symbolizing protection. This story teaches us that the parasol of Lord Vamana protects us from negative forces like greed, lust, and suffering, which obstruct the path to enlightenment.
Shrivats (Eternal knot)

Shri Vats, also known as the Eternal Knot, symbolizes the duality of the world. It is an ancient symbol in Hinduism, part of the Ashtamangala. It teaches us to live life with wisdom and compassion.
In the eternal knot, the intertwining lines show how everything is connected in a continuous cycle of cause and effect. This pattern has no gaps, symbolizing simplicity and perfect balance.
Gaur Matasya (fish)
Golden fish refers to being fearless and live freely in the world of sufferings and pain. They represent fertility and abundance as they multiply very rapidly.
We even had Matsya awatar of Lord Vishnu in Satyuga to conquer the world from demon of darkness and ignorance.
Dhwaja (flag)

Dhwaja refers to the flag that represents the symbolic identity of the group or institution or any opinion. Dhwaja is also a sign to show the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. For more information on Dhwaja, one read my previous blog on Dhwaja.
Kumbh (urn)
According to the Vedas, Kumbh or Kalash symbolizes abundance in life. As per ancient texts, during the Samudra Manthan, Lord Dhanvantari emerged from the churning of the ocean with a Kalash of Amrit (elixir). Hence, it represents wisdom, abundance, and immortality.
Thus, Hinduism considers the Kalash an important symbol in the Ashtamangala. The Kalash is adorned and worshipped at many festivals and events such as Navratri, Griha Pravesh, Dev Puja in weddings, and other rituals.
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Conclusion
At the end we know that these Ashtamangala symbols hold profound significance in Hinduism, representing key virtues and guiding principles for a harmonious life. Each symbol, from the lotus and eternal knot to the parasol and pair of fishes, carries deep meanings of purity, protection, wisdom and interconnectedness. They collectively embody the essence of spiritual growth, ethical living, and the pursuit of enlightenment. By understanding and embracing these symbols, individuals can draw inspiration to lead a life enriched with wisdom, compassion, and a deeper connection to the divine.
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