One of the important festival days in the Hindu calendar is on the 17th of September on which day Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated in many parts of India. On this day Lord Vishwakarma, who is considered to be the architect of the Gods is worshipped for his having created all that there is physically. He is also called the “Devashilpi” and is believed to have created the three realms of the heavens, the mortal world, and the underworld as well. He I the master artisans and his talent in creation is considered limitless. According to mythological texts available, it is said that he created the weapons for the gods, which also includes the flying chariots.
There are many wonderful tales associated with his creativity that presents him as the divine architect par excellence. He is said to have created the heavenly abode for the gods, the Golden palace in Lanka where the Demon king Ravana resided, the famed city of Dwarka the capital during the presence of Lord Krishna, the town of Hastinapur during the epic of Mahabharata and many more such places. In fact, there is clear reference of God Vishwakarma in the Mahabharata, which extols his greatness as a great architect, a master artisan, expert craftsman and so on. He is depicted to be riding on an elephant, has with him a pot of water, a host of technical instruments in his hands,
Because of this, all people in India who are involved with various crafts and trade that have a lot of hand work involved in it, observe this day with solemn religious intensity. People such as architects, engineers, mechanics, smiths, industrial and factory workers and similar, observe this day with great devotion. Such people usually observe this as a holiday, keep the tools of their trade in front of the Vishwakarma deity, and offer prayers to them with equal fervor. It is common practice for the employers and employees along with their families to observe this occasion in their respective workplaces. One can see erection of Pandals or temporary worship places erected inside large factories, where the occasion is observed with great amount of festivities.
One interesting aspect of this worship is that, all machineries, tools and appliances are cleaned, painted if required, and certainly rested. This allows a through inspection of these appliances and tools ensures cleanliness and a mandatory rest to the large number of machinery used in a manufacturing centre. The workers to get a much deserved rest and can spend a happy day with all family members. This creates an occasion that fosters social interaction and makes the workforce respect the tools of their trade.
Another point of interest for this year’s Vishwakarma puja would be that it is being held on the 18th of September as opposed to 17th September which is the fixed date in all other years. The reason for this anomaly is entirely the Hindu almanac adjusting itself to the English calendar month. It is said that a similar change of date was necessary in 1995 before this. However, no matter what date this day is celebrated, there is an immense festivity among the workforce, which is most, marked in the eastern states of India.
