Overview
Rudraksha (IAST: rudrākṣa) refers to the dried stones or seeds of trees of the genus Elaeocarpus, specifically Elaeocarpus ganitrus. The seeds are widely used as prayer beads in Hindu traditions, particularly among Shaivas, as well as by some Buddhists. When ripe, the stones are enclosed within a blue outer fruit, on account of which they are sometimes referred to as "blueberry beads".
In Hindu tradition, rudraksha is closely associated with the deity Shiva. Devotees wear the beads for spiritual protection and use them while chanting mantras such as Om Namah Shivaya (ॐ नमः शिवाय). The beads are commonly strung into malas (garlands) of varying counts and used to keep track of recitations during prayer and meditation.
The seeds are primarily sourced from India, Indonesia, and Nepal, where they are harvested for use in jewellery and ritual malas. In trade, they are valued in a manner comparable to semi-precious stones. Rudraksha beads are often crafted into necklaces, bracelets, and rosaries used in both religious and ornamental contexts.
A characteristic feature of the rudraksha is the presence of ridges or clefts on its surface, which are termed "faces" (Sanskrit: मुख, mukha). Beads vary in the number of faces they bear, and within popular tradition each type is often associated with a particular deity or spiritual quality. This classification by faces influences how individual beads are selected for personal use or strung into malas.