Vishwakarma Puja: A Veneration of Tools and Machines

Vishwakarma Puja is a festival dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma, the celestial architect and engineer in Hindu mythology. It is celebrated with great zeal across Bihar, especially by the community of artisans, craftsmen, mechanics, and industrial workers. The festival usually falls on September 17th each year. It honors the tools of trade, a concept also seen in the reverence for books during Saraswati Puja and for the deity of records in Chitragupta Puja.,On this day, workplaces like factories, workshops, and industrial units take on a festive look. All machinery and tools are cleaned, decorated with flowers, and worshipped. Workers pray to Lord Vishwakarma for the smooth functioning of their equipment, success in their endeavors, and safety at work.,It is a day of rest from professional work, as operating machinery is avoided. The day is spent in feasting and celebration. Vishwakarma Puja is a unique festival that honors the tools of one's trade and recognizes the divine in human skill and craftsmanship, a spirit that drives the artisans of Patharkatti and the weavers of Bhagalpur Silk.

Keywords: vishwakarma puja, festival of tools, artisan festival, industrial worship, bihar festivals