A Personal Reflection by Prakash Bolakhe
My spiritual journey is not limited to meditation or rituals. It extends into my work as a researcher, teacher, textile entrepreneur, and traveler. As I journey through Nepal, Europe, and around the world sharing Sanātana stories, philosophy, and the vision of conscious living, one sacred companion remains with me every day my 33+1 Rudraksha Mala.
This is not simply an ornament. It is a living reminder of discipline, compassion, and the eternal presence of Lord Shiva.
A Rare Gift from the Mid-Hills of Nepal
The Rudraksha beads in this mala are 100% naturally grown in the mid-hills of Nepal, a region blessed with fertile forests and a favorable Himalayan climate. Each bead is carefully selected in one of the largest naturally available sizes, preserving its natural texture and form.
Every bead reflects the beauty of nature and the spiritual heritage of Nepal.
Why I Chose 33+1 Beads
Most traditional malas contain 27, 54, or 108 beads. For my personal spiritual path, I intentionally chose 33 beads plus one Guru (Meru) bead.
For me, the number 33 symbolizes the 33 Vedic Devas, representing the harmony of all divine manifestations within the cosmic order. The Guru bead reminds me that all knowledge ultimately returns to the Supreme Reality.
This mala accompanies me during:
- Shiva Panchayatana Puja
- Meditation and mantra japa
- Teaching Sanātana philosophy
- Spiritual travel
- Research on Spiritual Textiles
- Daily life as a householder (Gṛhastha)
Five-Mukhi Rudraksha
Every bead in this mala is a 5-Mukhi (Pañchamukhi) Rudraksha, the most widely revered form associated with Lord Shiva.
Traditionally, the five faces symbolize:
- The five elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space)
- The five aspects of Shiva
- Balance, wisdom, and inner peace
For centuries, seekers have worn the five-mukhi Rudraksha as a reminder to live with awareness, humility, and compassion.
Spiritual Textile: Every Material Has Meaning
As a PhD researcher exploring Spiritual Textiles, I believe that every material used in sacred objects should express a philosophy.
My mala is hand-strung using plant-based hemp and cotton thread, reflecting values of:
- Sustainability
- Simplicity
- Natural craftsmanship
- Respect for nature
- Conscious living
The textile itself becomes part of the spiritual practice.
My Constant Companion
Whether I am walking in the Himalayas, speaking at a university, visiting monasteries and temples, or sharing Sanātana stories in Europe, this mala remains with me.
It reminds me that spirituality is not separate from everyday life. Every conversation can become service. Every journey can become a pilgrimage.
A Message to the World
The 33+1 Rudraksha Mala is more than a sacred object.
It represents a bridge between:
- Ancient wisdom and modern life
- Nature and consciousness
- Nepal and the world
- Spirituality and sustainable textiles
May this humble mala inspire people everywhere to live with greater awareness, compassion, and harmony with nature.
ॐ नमः शिवाय
“May Lord Shiva guide every step of our journey toward wisdom, service, and universal well-being.”
Author: Prakash Bolakhe
Founder, Global Spiritual Community
Researcher in Spiritual Textiles & Conscious Fashion
www.bolakheprakash.com.np