hindu symbols for kids

Every Hindu god carries special symbols with powerful meanings — discover what they are and why they matter.

Sacred Symbols of Hindu Gods

In Hinduism, every deity carries special objects that reveal their nature and powers. These symbols appear in temple art, puja ceremonies, festivals, and daily life. Teaching children to recognize them deepens their understanding of Hindu culture.

  • Trishul (Trident) — Lord Shiva's three-pronged weapon representing creation, preservation, and transformation
  • Sudarshana Chakra — Lord Vishnu's spinning disc that destroys evil and represents the cycle of time
  • Shankha (Conch Shell) — Vishnu's conch whose sound represents Om and the creation of the universe
  • Lotus — Carried by Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Vishnu, representing purity rising from muddy water
  • Bansuri (Flute) — Krishna's bamboo flute representing divine love and joy
  • Damaru (Drum) — Shiva's hourglass-shaped drum whose rhythm creates the universe

Symbols You See Every Day

Hindu symbols aren't just in mythology books — they appear throughout daily life:

At the Temple: The Shankha is blown to start aarti. The Om symbol graces doorways. Trishuls top many Shiva temples. Lotus carvings appear on pillars and walls.

During Festivals: Diyas (oil lamps) light up Diwali. Swastika symbols are drawn for good fortune. Rangoli patterns incorporate lotus and Om designs.

In the Home: Many families keep a small trishul or Om in their puja room. Shankha shells are used during morning and evening prayers. Lotus-shaped incense holders scent the home.

In Art and Jewelry: The Om pendant is one of the most popular Hindu jewelry designs. Lotus motifs appear in clothing, home decor, and paintings.

Download free coloring pages of all these symbols from our [free downloads page](/digital-downloads)!

Learning Through Coloring

Our free coloring sheets bring every symbol to life:

  • Trishul & Damaru — Color Shiva's trident and cosmic drum
  • Shankha & Sudarshana Chakra — Color Vishnu's conch and divine discus
  • Deity Symbols Collection — All sacred items on one page for comparison
  • Om Symbol — The most recognized Hindu symbol in the world
  • Diya — The oil lamp at the heart of Hindu worship

Coloring these symbols while discussing their meanings creates a hands-on cultural learning experience that children remember far better than simply being told facts.

explore our books

Beautifully illustrated books that bring these stories to life for young readers.

My Little Shloka and Mantra Book

My Little Shloka and Mantra Book

Teaches 15 traditional Hindu shlokas and Sanskrit mantras to children from baby to 14 years with pronunciation guides and simple meanings.

★★★★★ Loved by families
$22.45 4 formats available
The Marvelous Hindu Deities

The Marvelous Hindu Deities

Introduces 10 major Hindu gods and goddesses—including Ganesha, Krishna, and Lakshmi—to children from baby to 12 years through vibrant illustrations.

★★★★★ Loved by families
$14.99 3 formats available

frequently asked questions

What are the main Hindu symbols? +

The most important Hindu symbols include: Om (the sacred sound), Swastika (good fortune), Lotus (purity), Trishul (Shiva's trident), Sudarshana Chakra (Vishnu's disc), Shankha (conch shell), Diya (oil lamp), and Tilak (forehead mark). Our free coloring pages feature all of these symbols for children to learn while creating art.

How do I explain Hindu symbols to a child? +

Start with what they can see: "Each Hindu god carries special things, like a superhero has their gear." Then explain one at a time: "Shiva has a trident called a Trishul — its three points stand for three important forces." Our books introduce symbols through beautiful illustrations alongside the deities who carry them.

Where can I find free Hindu symbol coloring pages? +

Our free downloads page has 14 printable Hindu coloring sheets including deity symbols, Om mandalas, temples, and sacred instruments. All are free to download instantly — no signup required. Visit rootsonrise.com/digital-downloads to browse and download.

ready to start the journey?

Give your children the gift of understanding their rich heritage through beautifully illustrated stories and sacred traditions.

★★★★★ Loved by families worldwide

The Marvelous Hindu Deities

$14.99 Prime
Buy Now