Every year on September 17, India pauses to celebrate Vishwakarma Puja, a day that blends spirituality, craftsmanship, and gratitude. This unique festival pays tribute to Lord Vishwakarma, the celestial architect of the universe, while also recognizing the essential role that skilled workers, engineers, artisans, and craftsmen play in shaping our modern world.
A Divine Legend from Odisha: The Unfinished Idols of Jagannath
A famous legend from Odisha links Lord Vishwakarma to the origin of the sacred idols at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. As the story goes:
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King Indradyumna dreamed of building a temple for Lord Vishnu and invited Vishwakarma to carve the idols.
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The divine craftsman agreed on the condition that he would work in complete secrecy and must not be disturbed.
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However, growing impatient after many silent days, the king opened the door — breaking the agreement.
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Vishwakarma disappeared, leaving the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra incomplete.
These unfinished idols, with their unique form and large, unblinking eyes, are now considered deeply sacred — a powerful symbol that divinity transcends physical perfection and is accessible to all.
Who is Lord Vishwakarma
In Hindu mythology, Lord Vishwakarma is regarded as the divine engineer and creator of the cosmos. He is believed to have designed the heavenly abodes of the gods, including Dwarka (Lord Krishna’s city), Pushpak Vimana (the flying chariot), and various divine weapons used in epic battles.
He represents not only creation but also precision, imagination, and craftsmanship — making him a symbol of excellence in the world of architecture, design, and technical innovation.
Why is Vishwakarma Puja Celebrated?
Vishwakarma Puja is much more than a religious observance. It is a celebration of labor, skill, and innovation — and a day to honour the hands and minds that build the foundations of our society.
Key Themes of the Festival:
- Divine Creativity: Paying homage to Lord Vishwakarma’s role as the original creator.
- Craftsmanship and Innovation: Acknowledging the importance of engineers, artisans, factory workers, and all skilled professionals.
- Respect for Tools: Worshipping tools, machines, and instruments as extensions of human creativity.
- Gratitude and Blessings: Seeking divine blessings for progress, safety, prosperity, and inspiration in work.
When is Vishwakarma Puja Observed?
Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated every year on September 17, which often coincides with Kanya Sankranti, the transition of the sun into Virgo according to the Hindu solar calendar. It marks an auspicious time to begin new ventures, install new machinery, or restart work with fresh energy and devotion.
How is Vishwakarma Puja Celebrated?
Across India, especially in industrial areas, factories, mechanical workshops, offices, and even schools of engineering and design, the day is marked with devotion, discipline, and community spirit.
Common Rituals and Practices:
- Workplace Cleaning & Decoration: Tools, machines, and entire workshops are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with flowers, garlands, and rangoli designs.
- Installation of Lord Vishwakarma’s Idol: A statue or image is placed at a central spot and worshipped with traditional rituals.
- Offerings & Aarti: Devotees offer coconuts, sweets, fruits, and rice, followed by chanting, prayers, and aarti.
- No-Work Day: Many workers refrain from using their tools and machines as a mark of respect and to allow for maintenance and reflection.
- Community Meals: Special feasts are often organized, where workers, owners, and staff share meals together as a sign of unity and gratitude.
A Celebration of Work, Unity, and Progress
What sets Vishwakarma Puja apart is its universal relevance. While rooted in spiritual beliefs, the festival transcends religion to embrace the dignity of labour, the value of technical knowledge, and the need for innovation in everyday life.
In a rapidly evolving world, Vishwakarma Puja serves as a beautiful reminder that progress is built on the strength of skilled hands and creative minds.
As we celebrate Vishwakarma Puja, let’s take a moment to recognize the people who often work behind the scenes — the machinists, welders, designers, artisans, and technicians — whose creativity and dedication make everything from a simple tool to a skyscraper possible.
May this day inspire us all to value hard work, cherish innovation, and strive for excellence in whatever we do.