Rudraksha Mala – Types, 108 Beads, Japa, Uses & How to Choose

What is a Rudraksha Mala?

A Rudraksha Mala is a string of Rudraksha beads traditionally used for prayer, meditation and mantra repetition. The individual beads are threaded together to create a rosary or Mala that can be used for counting repetitions of a mantra.

Rudraksha Malas can be made with beads of the same Mukhi or with selected combinations according to the intended spiritual or traditional purpose.

The Mala may be used during Japa, kept in a prayer space or worn around the neck according to the tradition followed by the practitioner.

Rudraksha Mala for Japa and Meditation

One of the most traditional uses of a Rudraksha Mala is Japa, the repeated recitation of a mantra. Moving through the beads one by one provides a physical method of keeping count while maintaining concentration on the mantra.

For many practitioners, the Mala also becomes a reminder to maintain a regular meditation and prayer routine.

Rudraksha is traditionally associated with Lord Shiva, making Rudraksha Mala particularly popular among devotees who practise Shiva mantra Japa.

Why Does a Rudraksha Mala Have 108+1 Beads?

The number 108 has special significance in several Indian spiritual traditions. A traditional Japa Mala commonly contains 108 beads, along with an additional bead known as the Guru Bead, Meru or Sumeru.

The additional bead provides a point at which the practitioner traditionally turns the Mala around instead of crossing over the Guru bead.

The detailed significance of 108 beads is explained in our dedicated guide: Why Rudraksha Malas Have 108+1 Beads .

How Many Beads Can a Rudraksha Mala Have?

The number of beads can vary according to the type and purpose of the Mala. Traditional Japa Malas commonly use 108 beads with a Guru bead, while shorter Malas may contain 27 or 54 beads.

Mala Type	Traditional Use
108+1 Beads	Traditional Japa and mantra practice
54 Beads	Shorter Japa practice
27 Beads	Compact Mala for mantra repetition
Neck Mala	Traditional devotional wearing

Types of Rudraksha Malas

Different types of Rudraksha Malas are available according to the Mukhi of the beads, spiritual purpose, bead combination and design.

Rudraksha Mala According to Mukhi

The number of natural faces or Mukhi is one of the most important ways of classifying Rudraksha. Different Mukhi beads have different traditional associations with deities and planets.

Before selecting a Mala based on a particular Mukhi, it is useful to understand the individual Rudraksha types.

Explore the complete: Rudraksha Beads Guide – 1 to 21 Mukhi .

Rudraksha Mala and Astrology

Rudraksha is also associated with traditional Indian astrology. Different Mukhi beads are traditionally connected with particular planetary influences, Nakshatras and zodiac signs.

Astrological Topic	Explore
Planets and Rudraksha	Rudraksha According to Planets
Nakshatras and Rudraksha	Rudraksha According to Nakshatra
Zodiac Signs and Rudraksha	Rudraksha According to Zodiac
Planets in Astrology	Planets in Astrology
27 Nakshatras	Nakshatras in Astrology
12 Zodiac Signs	Sunsigns in Astrology
Horoscope Houses	Houses in Horoscope

How to Choose a Rudraksha Mala

The right Mala depends upon how you intend to use it. A Mala selected primarily for mantra Japa may be different from one selected for devotional wearing or according to traditional astrological considerations.

Before purchasing a Mala, consider:

• The purpose for which you want to use the Mala.
• The type and Mukhi of Rudraksha beads.
• The number of beads.
• Whether the Mala is intended for Japa or wearing.
• The quality and natural condition of the beads.
• The authenticity of the Rudraksha.
• Whether an astrological recommendation is required.

How to Use a Rudraksha Japa Mala

A traditional Japa practice involves holding the Mala comfortably and repeating the chosen mantra while moving from one bead to the next.

The Guru bead or Meru is traditionally treated as the starting and turning point. After completing a round, many practitioners turn the Mala around rather than crossing over the Guru bead.

The exact Japa method can vary according to the mantra, spiritual tradition and personal practice.

How to Wear a Rudraksha Mala

Rudraksha Malas may be worn around the neck as a traditional sacred adornment. Some practitioners prefer to use their Mala exclusively for prayer and Japa.

If you intend to wear a Mala, it is advisable to follow the practices of the tradition in which you have been initiated or instructed.

For traditional guidance on wearing Rudraksha, see: Rules for Wearing Rudraksha Beads .

Rudraksha Mala Puja and Preparation

Many devotees traditionally cleanse and prepare a Rudraksha Mala before using it for the first time. Prayer and mantra recitation may be performed according to the practitioner's tradition.

For a detailed traditional procedure, visit: How Rudraksha Puja is Performed .

How to Clean and Maintain a Rudraksha Mala

Rudraksha beads should be handled carefully and protected from unnecessary exposure to harsh chemicals, perfumes and prolonged moisture.

• Keep the Mala clean and dry.
• Handle the beads gently.
• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
• Do not pull or stretch the thread unnecessarily.
• Store the Mala in a clean and dry place when not in use.
• Inspect the thread periodically for signs of wear.

How to Check the Authenticity of a Rudraksha Mala

Authenticity is particularly important when purchasing rare or expensive Rudraksha Malas. Natural Rudraksha beads have naturally formed Mukhi lines and characteristic surface features.

A simple home test should not be considered absolute proof of authenticity. For valuable Rudraksha, appropriate laboratory testing and reliable documentation can provide greater confidence.

Read our detailed guide: Rudraksha Purity and Authenticity .

Rudraksha Mala and Other Sacred Malas

Different sacred materials are traditionally used to make Malas, including Rudraksha, Tulsi, crystal and other materials. The choice depends upon the spiritual tradition, mantra and purpose of practice.

Rudraksha Mala is particularly associated with Shiva-oriented spiritual practice and is widely used for meditation and Japa.

Rudraksha Mala for Spiritual Practice

A Rudraksha Mala can become a meaningful part of a regular spiritual routine. Using the same Mala for daily Japa can provide continuity and help establish a dedicated space for prayer and meditation.

The spiritual value of the Mala lies not only in the physical beads but also in the discipline, intention and devotional practice of the person using it.

Related Rudraksha Guides

Frequently Asked Questions About Rudraksha Mala

What is a Rudraksha Mala?

A Rudraksha Mala is a string of Rudraksha beads traditionally used for prayer, meditation, mantra Japa and devotional practice.

How many beads are in a Rudraksha Mala?

A traditional Japa Mala commonly contains 108 beads along with a Guru bead, also called Meru or Sumeru. Shorter Malas may contain 27 or 54 beads.

What is the purpose of 108 beads?

The number 108 has special significance in several Indian spiritual traditions. A 108-bead Mala is traditionally used for counting mantra repetitions.

Can Rudraksha Mala be used for Japa?

Yes. Rudraksha Mala is traditionally used for Japa and meditation, especially for devotees following Shiva-oriented spiritual practices.

Can a Rudraksha Mala be worn around the neck?

Yes. Rudraksha Mala is traditionally worn around the neck as a sacred adornment. Some people instead reserve their Mala exclusively for Japa and prayer.

How should a Rudraksha Mala be cleaned?

It should be handled gently and protected from harsh chemicals, perfumes and prolonged moisture. A clean, dry storage place is recommended.

How can I identify an original Rudraksha Mala?

Natural Mukhi lines and the overall structure of the beads should be examined. For rare or expensive Rudraksha, appropriate laboratory authentication is preferable to relying on a single home test.

Which Rudraksha Mala should I choose?

The choice depends upon whether the Mala is intended for Japa, meditation, devotional wearing or traditional astrological purposes. The Mukhi, bead quality, number of beads and authenticity should all be considered.

Can I get a Rudraksha Mala according to my horoscope?

Traditional astrological recommendations may consider planets, Nakshatra, zodiac sign and the complete horoscope. For personalised guidance, a complete birth chart is more useful than a general zodiac recommendation.