Other Japa Beads
Japa malas in lotus seed, vaijanti, haldi, karungali, rakta chandan, coral and other traditional beads, each linked to its own form of worship.
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Beyond the familiar woods and crystal lies a whole shelf of traditional materials, and other japa beads are often chosen for one particular deity or vow. Kamal gatta, the dried seed of the lotus, is strung into malas used in Lakshmi worship, especially around Diwali. Vaijanti seeds, hard and pearly grey, are associated with Krishna, who is said to wear a vaijanti garland.
Haldi malas made of turmeric root pieces are linked with Baglamukhi and Jupiter-related practice, karungali or ebony is popular in Tamil Nadu for Murugan devotees, and hakik, moonga or navratna bead malas are tied to Jyotish customs. Each material has a different weight and texture, from the rough lotus seed to the slick vaijanti.
Natural seeds and roots vary in size and colour, which is normal. Store these other japa beads in a dry pouch, since seeds can absorb moisture and grow mould, and keep them away from insects by adding a few cloves or neem leaves to the box.