Karungali malai | Black ebony mala

Karungali (கருங்காலி), or black ebony, is the wood most closely associated in Tamil practice with japa and with the worship of Shiva, Ayyappan and Amman. This malai is strung from turned Karungali beads and is used both for counting mantras and for daily wear.

What you receive

• 1 x Karungali malai
• Material: black ebony wood
• Colour: black
• Bead size: 6mm, 8mm or 10mm, as selected
• Length: please refer to the size chart in the last product image

How it is used

For japa the beads are moved with the thumb and middle finger, the index finger traditionally kept away. Many households prepare a new malai by soaking it in water for a day and then in milk or curd for a day, then chanting the mantra of their ishta devata before wearing it. This preparation differs by family and sampradaya, so follow your own practice.

About the material

Karungali is a dense natural hardwood. Grain, shade and weight vary from bead to bead, and one malai may run slightly deeper black than another. With regular wear the beads pick up a natural sheen from skin oils. These differences are normal for real wood, not flaws.

Delivery and payment

Free delivery across India. Cash on Delivery is available. Orders are dispatched in 1-2 working days and usually arrive in 4-8 days. If your order reaches you damaged or is not what you ordered, we will replace it within 7 days of delivery.

Questions

How can I tell it is real Karungali?
Genuine Karungali is heavy for its size and dense enough that beads generally sink rather than float. Rubbing a bead firmly on white paper should not leave a black smear, which dyed wood usually does.

How do I care for it?
Keep it dry, wipe with a soft cloth, and rub in a drop of coconut or gingelly oil if the wood looks dull. Avoid soap and perfume.

Who can wear it?
Men, women and children may all wear it, and it is common during vratham periods. Rules on removing it differ by family custom.

Which bead size should I choose?
6mm is light and sits close to the neck, 8mm is the common all-round choice, and 10mm is easier to count during long japa.

Delivery and payment?
Dispatched in 1-2 working days, usually delivered in 4-8 days, free across India, with Cash on Delivery available.