Sandalwood Mala
A mala of 108 beads is the traditional counter for japa — one bead per repetition, one full round per mala. Sandalwood has long been the wood of choice for it, because the beads warm in the hand and release their fragrance as you work through the round.
White chandan or red lal chandan?
The white sandalwood mala is the fragrant one — its scent revives whenever you rub the beads between your palms. The red lal chandan mala has little aroma, but a deep natural colour that darkens and takes on a lustre over years of use.
Choosing a bead size
- 6 mm — lightest, suits smaller hands and wearing as a necklace
- 8 mm — the classic all-round size for daily japa
- 10 mm — fuller grip, more presence in the hand
- 12 mm — largest beads, substantial to hold, best for seated meditation
Care
Keep a sandalwood mala away from water and perfume. Both are hand-strung with a guru bead, in the traditional 108 + 1 configuration.
