How to wear Rudraksha beads properly: Dos, don’ts and rituals

Mumbai: In Hindu tradition, the Rudraksha is far more than just a bead or ornament. It is revered as a sacred blessing from Lord Shiva—a powerful spiritual tool that offers protection, peace, and inner balance. Believed to carry divine energy, Rudraksha beads are often worn during prayer or meditation to deepen one’s connection with the divine and attract Shiv’s grace.

However, Rudraksha is not for everyone to wear casually. It’s naturally “hot” energy can feel overwhelming to some individuals, making it unsuitable for daily use in rare cases. If that’s the case, it can still be respectfully kept in your puja room and used for mantra chanting. For first-time wearers, following traditional guidelines is essential to unlock its full spiritual potential.

Preparation Before Wearing Rudraksha

  • To energise and purify your Rudraksha beads before wearing them:
  • Soak the Rudraksha in ghee (clarified butter) for 24 hours.
  • After that, soak it in cow’s milk for a few hours.
  • Rinse the beads thoroughly with Gangajal (holy Ganges water).
  • Pat dry with a clean cloth.
  • Thread the beads using a cotton or silk thread. Gold or silver wire may also be used.
  • Finally, hold the Rudraksha in your palm and chant a Shiva mantra 108 times to spiritually activate it.

How Many Rudraksha Beads to Wear?

The most sacred Rudraksha mala consists of 108 beads plus one guru bead (the central bead).

Alternatively, you may wear malas made of 27 or 54 beads, depending on your comfort and practice.

When to Wear Rudraksha?

The most auspicious time is early morning during Brahma Muhurat (around 4–6 AM).

Choose a spiritually significant day—preferably a Monday (Shiv’s day) or Thursday.

Rules for Wearing Rudraksha

  1. Always treat the Rudraksha with respect.
  2. Remove it before using the toilet.
  3. It is advisable to take it off before sleeping.
  4. Chant the Rudraksha mantra or its mool mantra nine times every morning and night (before removing it).
  5. Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol while wearing it.
  6. Do not wear Rudraksha during funerals or while in mourning (sootak/patak periods).

Rudraksha, when worn with reverence and purity, can offer immense spiritual upliftment. Let it serve not just as a symbol of devotion, but as a living connection to Lord Shiva’s divine energy.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)