Valampuri sangu

Valampuri sangu (வலம்புரி சங்கு), the Dakshinavarti shankh, is the conch whose spiral turns to the right — the opposite direction to the common conch. Right-turning shells occur far less often in nature, which is why the valampuri is treated as the rarer and more auspicious of the two and is associated with Lakshmi.

What you receive

• 1 x Valampuri sangu
• Material: natural shell
• Size: 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4–5, 5–6, 6–7, 7–8 or 8–9 inches, as selected

How it is used

Unlike the paal sangu, the valampuri is generally kept and worshipped rather than blown. Most households place it on a stand in the pooja room, often on a cloth, and some keep it near the cash box or in the north-east of the home. Placement conventions differ by family and by the astrologer advising — follow your own custom.

Choosing a size

1.5 to 3.5 inches suits a pooja shelf or a cash box. 4 to 6 inches is the usual choice as a pooja room centrepiece. 7 inches and above is a substantial display piece and is often given as a housewarming or wedding gift. Larger sizes are priced considerably higher because large right-turning shells are genuinely scarce.

About the material

Every valampuri is a natural sea shell. Shape, weight, surface marking, ridging and shade of white differ from piece to piece, and larger shells commonly show more natural marking rather than less. Perfectly uniform shells are the ones worth being suspicious of.

Delivery and payment

Free delivery across India, no minimum. Cash on Delivery available, plus UPI, cards and net banking. Dispatched within 1–2 working days, typically delivered in 4–8. Packed with extra padding; if it arrives damaged, send a photograph within 7 days and we will replace it.

Questions

How do I know it is a genuine valampuri?
Hold the conch with the opening facing you and the spire up. In a valampuri the opening is on your right. In a common conch it is on the left.

Can it be blown?
Valampuri are generally kept and worshipped rather than blown. For a blowable conch, the paal sangu is the one you want.

How do I clean it?
Rinse with plain water and dry thoroughly. No soap or detergent. Keep it out of direct sunlight, which yellows shell over time.

Why are the larger sizes so much more expensive?
Right-turning shells are uncommon, and large ones much more so. Price rises steeply with size for that reason.

Is Cash on Delivery available?
Yes, anywhere in India.