Red Sandalwood Mala | Original Lal Chandan Mala 108+1 Beads

In the realm of spirituality and devotion, various religious practices hold immense significance. One such practice is the use of sacred prayer beads or malas, which are commonly used in Hinduism and Buddhism to aid in meditation and chanting. Among the different types of malas available, the Lal Chandan Mala, also known as the Red Sandalwood Mala, stands out for its unique properties and revered status.

What is a Lal Chandan Mala?

The Origins of Lal Chandan Mala

The Lal Chandan Mala traces its roots back to ancient times, where the use of sandalwood was prevalent in religious and spiritual practices. Derived from the red sandalwood tree, also known as Pterocarpus santalinus, this mala is renowned for its vibrant hues. The red sandalwood tree is primarily found in Southern India, particularly in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, where it holds significant cultural and religious value.

Composition and Appearance

The Lal Chandan Mala consists of 108 beads, which are traditionally strung together with a durable thread. Each bead is made from the heartwood of the red sandalwood tree, known for its rich red coloration. These beads are smooth and lightweight adding to the overall experience of using the mala for meditation and prayer.

Significance in Hinduism

Religious Associations

In Hinduism, the color red is considered auspicious and symbolizes power, vitality, and devotion. The Lal Chandan Mala, with its red beads, holds deep spiritual significance. It is often associated with Hindu deities like Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi, who are revered for their blessings of wisdom, prosperity, and abundance.

Use in Meditation and Mantra Recitation

The Lal Chandan Mala is widely used in Hindu meditation practices and mantra recitation. The act of chanting mantras while counting the beads on the mala helps to focus the mind and achieve a state of deep meditation. The smooth texture of the red sandalwood beads provides a tactile sensation, aiding in concentration and enhancing the overall spiritual experience.

Connecting with Deities

Devotees often use the Lal Chandan Mala to establish a deeper connection with their chosen deities. By chanting specific mantras or the names of the deities, individuals seek to invoke their divine presence and seek their blessings. The Lal Chandan Mala acts as a sacred tool that facilitates this communication, enabling devotees to express their devotion and receive spiritual guidance.

Spiritual Benefits

Enhancing Focus and Concentration

One of the primary benefits of using the Lal Chandan Mala is its ability to enhance focus and concentration during meditation. As the fingers glide over the smooth beads, the mind becomes attuned to the rhythm of the practice, leading to a heightened state of mindfulness. This focused state allows practitioners to dive deeper into their spiritual journey and experience a sense of tranquility and clarity.

Promoting Calmness and Tranquility

Beads of the Lal Chandan Mala has a calming effect on the mind and body. The subtle aroma helps to create a serene and peaceful environment, allowing individuals to unwind and release stress. Regular use of the mala can promote a sense of tranquility, bringing about a state of inner peace and emotional balance.

Cultivating Positive Energy

The Lal Chandan Mala is believed to carry positive energy and vibrations. As devotees engage in the act of mantra recitation and meditation, the mala absorbs their intentions and spiritual energy. Over time, the mala becomes infused with this positive energy, acting as a conduit for divine blessings and spiritual growth. The use of the mala serves as a reminder to cultivate positive thoughts, intentions, and actions in daily life.

Healing Properties

Balancing and Harmonizing Energies

Red sandalwood is known for its grounding and balancing properties. The Lal Chandan Mala helps to align the energies within the body, bringing harmony to the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. The consistent use of the mala can restore equilibrium and promote overall well-being.

Strengthening the Aura

The red sandalwood beads of the Lal Chandan Mala are believed to have a protective and strengthening effect on the aura. The aura is the subtle energy field that surrounds an individual, and it can be influenced by external factors and emotions. Regular use of the mala helps to cleanse and strengthen the aura, creating a shield of positive energy that enhances one’s spiritual journey.

Alleviating Stress and Anxiety

The act of using the Lal Chandan Mala in meditation and mantra recitation can have a soothing effect on the mind and body. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress levels, and helps individuals to let go of anxiety and worries. The repetitive motion of counting the beads and the rhythmic chanting of mantras act as a form of mindfulness practice, allowing practitioners to find solace and inner peace.

How to Use a Lal Chandan Mala ?

Preparing for Meditation

Before beginning a meditation session, it is important to create a calm and peaceful environment. Find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably. Hold the Lal Chandan Mala in your right hand, allowing it to rest on your middle or ring finger. Start by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself and then begin gently moving your thumb to count each bead as you recite your chosen mantra.

Chanting Mantras

The Lal Chandan Mala can be used to chant various mantras depending on your spiritual practice or personal preference. Some popular mantras associated with the Lal Chandan Mala include the Ganesh Mantra, Om Mantra, or any other mantra that resonates with you. As you hold the mala, gently move your thumb to count each bead while reciting the mantra. Take your time and allow the rhythm of the mala to guide you into a deeper state of meditation and connection.

Caring for Your Mala

To maintain the integrity and spiritual energy of your Lal Chandan Mala, it is essential to care for it properly. Here are a few tips to ensure its longevity:

1. Store it in a clean and sacred space: Keep your mala in a dedicated space, such as a pouch or a small altar, away from dust and dirt.
2. Avoid contact with water: Red sandalwood is sensitive to moisture, so it’s best to avoid exposing your mala to water. Remove it before bathing or swimming.
3. Cleanse it energetically: Regularly cleanse your mala to remove any accumulated negative energy. You can do this by passing it through incense smoke or placing it under moonlight.
4. Use it with reverence: Treat your Lal Chandan Mala with respect and reverence. Remember that it is a sacred tool for spiritual practice and should be handled mindfully.

The Ritual of Japa

Importance of Japa

Japa is the repetitive recitation of a mantra, and it holds immense significance in many spiritual traditions. Japa meditation using the Lal Chandan Mala allows practitioners to deepen their connection with the divine, cultivate mindfulness, and attain spiritual growth. It is a powerful practice that helps to calm the mind, purify the thoughts, and open the heart to higher consciousness.

Techniques for Japa meditation

There are various techniques you can employ to enhance your Japa meditation using the Lal Chandan Mala. Here are a few:

1. Focus on the breath: Before beginning your Japa meditation, take a few moments to focus on your breath. Allow your breath to become steady and rhythmic, anchoring your attention to the present moment.
2. Choose a mantra: Select a mantra that resonates with you and holds personal significance. It could be a mantra dedicated to a specific deity or a universal mantra like “Om” or “So Hum.”
3. Set an intention: Before starting your Japa meditation, set an intention for your practice. It could be to cultivate inner peace, invite healing, or seek guidance. Let this intention guide your focus throughout the meditation.
4. Be present with each bead: As you move your thumb along each bead of the Lal Chandan Mala, repeat the chosen mantra with clarity and devotion. Allow the vibrations of the mantra to permeate your being and bring you into a state of deep connection.
5. Maintain a steady pace: Find a rhythm and pace that feels comfortable for you. The goal is to establish a seamless flow of repetition, allowing the mantra to become a continuous stream of consciousness.
6. Engage the senses: As you recite the mantra, engage your senses by visualizing the deity associated with the mantra or focusing on the sensations of the mala beads between your fingers. This multisensory approach can deepen your meditation experience.

Remember, Japa meditation is a personal and sacred practice. Find a method that resonates with you and allows you to connect with the divine in your own unique way.

FAQs about Lal Chandan Mala

1. What is the spiritual significance of Lal Chandan Mala? The Lal Chandan Mala holds great spiritual significance in Hinduism. It is associated with devotion, purity, and the blessings of deities like Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi. The vibrant red color represents power, vitality, and devotion, making it an auspicious tool for meditation and mantra recitation.
2. Can anyone use a Lal Chandan Mala? Yes, anyone who wishes to deepen their spiritual practice can use a Lal Chandan Mala. It is not limited to a particular gender, age, or religious background. The mala serves as a powerful tool for all individuals seeking inner peace, focus, and connection with the divine.
3. How many beads are there in a Lal Chandan Mala? A traditional Lal Chandan Mala consists of 108+1 beads. This number holds great significance in many spiritual traditions and is believed to represent the 108 energy channels in the human body.
4. Can I wear the Lal Chandan Mala as jewelry? While the primary purpose of the Lal Chandan Mala is for spiritual practice, some individuals also choose to wear it as a form of jewelry. However, it is important to remember the sacred nature of the mala and treat it with respect, regardless of how it is worn.
5. How often should I use my Lal Chandan Mala? The frequency of using your Lal Chandan Mala depends on your personal spiritual practice. Some individuals may use it daily during meditation or mantra recitation, while others may use it on specific occasions or during religious ceremonies. Listen to your intuition and establish a practice that resonates with you.

Conclusion

The Lal Chandan Mala, with its vibrant red sandalwood beads, holds a special place in the realm of spiritual practices. It serves as a powerful tool for meditation, mantra recitation, and deepening one’s connection with the divine. The rich history, spiritual significance, and healing properties of the Lal Chandan Mala make it a cherished accessory for seekers of inner peace and spiritual growth.

Through its ability to enhance focus, promote calmness, and cultivate positive energy, the Lal Chandan Mala assists individuals in their journey towards self-discovery and higher consciousness. Embrace the sacredness of this beautiful necklace and allow its vibrations to guide you on your path of spiritual awakening.

Meaning of Abhimantrit:

Using Mantras to make any object pure, sacred and very powerful. In this process a thing is given a super power to do a certain task by taking water in hand and reading Mantra, Homa etc. This puja item is Abhimantrit with proper Mantras, Puja’s and Spiritually activated by the guidance of late shri Vasudev Prasad Ji to give best results. Since a Yantra and Mala is a Man-Made object. So it requires Abhimantrit to infuse potency and power to benefit of the owner (user). Before sending the Extra Powerful Puja Items. We get all Abhimantrit puja items done at the bank of maa ganga river in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. By learned Purohit and Pandits (Priests).  This is done by reciting Mantras as prescribed by Vedas (Hindu Holy Books). As well as Homa for the respective Devi/Devta (God/Godess) as per Purpose of Yantra and Mala.

Abhimantrit Meaning in Hindi (अभिमंत्रित का हिंदी में अर्थ):

मन्त्रों का प्रयोग करके किसी भी वस्तु को शुद्ध, पवित्र व अत्यधिक ताकतवर बनाना है.