Saligrams or Shila Murti

These dark Himalayan fossils are believed to be somewhere between 140 and 165 million years old. In Nepal and India it is possible to find old Saligrams that have been kept within a temple for many centuries and they are highly prized for their potent spiritual blessings. Each piece is unique and they are worshipped according to the markings and shape of the stone. The spiralling stones represent the Sudarshana Chakra, a 'spinning disk-like super weapon with 108 serrated edges'. There are many other special properties attributed to the Saligram. For example, pieces that display areas of golden pyrite inclusions are prized for bestowing wealth and prosperity. Drinking water that a Saligram has been bathed in is believed to purify negative karma and encourage healing.