Why is Shikha important?
Why is Shikha important?
Shikha is considered a symbol of Hindu religion. 'Shikha Shastra' has been prepared keeping in mind the laws of nature and science. Manu has asked everyone to perform Shikha Sanskar i.e. Chuda Karma. Yatha- Chudakarma Dwijaatinam Sarveshameva Dharmatah. Regarding how big should Shikha be, the scripture says that its size should be equal to that of a cow's hoof.
To understand the meaning of Shikha, we should first understand the structure of the head. There are two parts of the head which are connected to each other. Out of the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna nerves in the body, Sushumna nerve goes in the vertical direction from the middle of both the skulls of the head. The highest stage of human evolution is self-realization. This realization takes place through Sushumna. Sushumna nerve passes through the Apana path and merges into the Brahmarandhra through the head. Brahmarandhra is the confluence of three powers- knowledge, action and desire. This is the reason why Brahmarandhra feels colder than other parts of the head. That is why hair is not grown on that part.It is very important. Even when there is cold air outside, this mass of hair maintains sufficient heat in the Brahmarandhra.
In 'Yajrveda', Shikha has been called the 'Indryoni'. Karma, knowledge and the energy that drives desire reach the senses through the Brahmarandhra. In other words, Shikha is the 'antenna' of man. Just as an antenna is used to catch the waves of Doordarshan or Akashvani, Shikha is used to receive cosmic energy. Brahmarandhra is very important and very soft compared to other vital points. That is why Shikha is planned at this place. It is called 'Pineal Gland' in English. The correct place of this gland is near the Brahmarandhra. The more sensitive this gland is, the more the human develops.
The Shikha should be tied in a knot while performing Mantra Purashcharana or other religious rituals. The reason for this is that by tying the knot, the energy generated by mantra vibrations gets collected in the body. Its outflow through the Shikha is not possible. If there is excess energy, it gets out automatically through the infectious posture. While doing Sandhya, Shikha tying is an independent method. Chamunda Devi is considered to be present in Shikha Granthi. Chamunda Devi prevents thought pollution and noise pollution, hence prayers are offered to her by tying the Shikha.
In 'Ayurveda', there are a total of one hundred and seven Marmas like flesh Marma, vein Marma, nerve Marma, bone Marma and joint Marma. Out of them, the most important nineteen Marmas are Adhipa. More hair is present here to protect the Adhipas. Brahmarandhra Marma is the emperor. Due to this, more hair is found there. Keeping Shikha in this way proves beneficial for health and spiritual progress.
