Sakshi / Counter Mala – Tulsi Japa Round Tracker from Vrindavan

Practical Use in Japa Meditation

In ISKCON traditions, devotees often chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra using a Japa Mala, which typically consists of 108 beads. To keep track of the number of rounds chanted, especially when exceeding one round, the Sakshi Mala serves as a counting tool. It usually comprises 20 beads, divided into two segments: 16 beads for the standard daily commitment and 4 additional beads for extra rounds. This design aids devotees in maintaining focus and discipline during their meditation sessions. ​

Sakshi Mala serves both as a practical tool for tracking mantra repetitions and as a symbolic reminder of the spiritual principle of witnessing one’s inner self.