Japa Mala: Rudraksha, Tulsi, Karungali and Navratna Malas

Mala types on this page

Each mala is listed by its bead material. Here is what the product titles name.

• 108 Beads Rudraksha Jaap Mala and Pure Black Rudraksha Mala.
• Tulsi Kanthi Mala and Tulsi 108 Beads Mala.
• Karungali Malai 108-Bead Ebony Wood Mala, with silver-cap necklace and combo styles.
• Navratna Mala, Sphatik Mala, Chandan Jaap Mala and Kapoor Mala.
• Stone malas in Golden Pyrite and Lava Stone.

How to choose a japa mala

Decide first whether you want a counting mala or a mala to wear. Then compare these points on the product page.

• Bead count: a traditional japa mala has 108 beads, while a kanthi or necklace may have fewer.
• Bead size, which affects how the mala feels in the hand or on the neck.
• Construction, as described on the listing.

For example, the 5 Mukhi Rudraksha Kantha Mala is listed with 54+1 beads, so it is not a 108-bead mala.

Which mala for which mantra

In Hindu tradition, Rudraksha is associated with Lord Shiva. Many devotees use a Rudraksha mala for mantras such as Om Namah Shivaya.

Tulsi is associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. A Tulsi mala is often used for mantras such as Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

Follow the mantra and mala given by your family or guru. If you have no guidance yet, pick the deity you feel closest to.

How to use a japa mala

Hold the mala in your right hand. Move one bead at a time with your thumb and middle finger as you repeat the mantra. Many devotees avoid using the index finger.

One round is 108 repetitions. On a traditional mala, the larger guru bead (Sumeru) is not counted. Turn the mala around at that bead instead of crossing it.

Follow your own family custom for where you keep the mala between sessions.

Care, and more malas to compare

Keep wood, seed and Tulsi malas dry, and wipe them gently with a soft cloth. Store the mala in a pouch so the beads do not knock together.

To compare one material in depth, see Karungali jaap malas, Tulsi malas, Chandan malas or crystal and gemstone malas. The Rudraksha page lists beads and malas together.

If you are buying a mala as a gift, ask which deity and mantra the person follows.