Kalawa/mauli is considered sacred in Hindu culture and ties beofre any auspicious event or festival.

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Introduction
Have you ever found yourself in a temple, standing before the deities, as a priest gently ties a sacred red thread around your wrist? That thread, known as mauli or kalawa, is more than just a simple adornment. As the cool thread touches your skin, you might feel a sense of connection, something ancient and profound.
Apparently, this practice, passed down through countless generations, is steeped in spiritual significance—offering protection, blessings, and a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that continue to thrive in Hindu culture.
What is Kalawa/Mauli?
A kalawa/mauli is a sacred thread made of crude cotton. It is used for protection, often in red and yellow hues, and can sometimes have knots tied in it.
Different names of sacred thread
Across the Indian subcontinent, it is known by different names. In North India, it’s called kalawa, mauli, raksasutra, or pratisara, while in South India, it’s referred to as kautaka, kaapu, kayiru, charandu, or rakshadhara. Each name reflects the rich regional traditions surrounding this important ritual practice.
Significance of kalawa/mauli
Moreover, the tradition of tying a protective thread dates back to ancient Hindu scriptures, where it was described as a sacred act to seek blessings. Since childhood, I have heard and read stories of kings and sages tying the raksha sutra before beginning a Havana (sacred fire ritual).
Besides, to invoke purity and shield the wearer from negative energies, mauli was tied. This simple yet profound act, known as the rakshasutra, connected people to divine protection. Even now, this custom thrives in our daily lives. Think about a wedding ceremony—when the kalawa/mauli is tied on the groom’s wrist, it’s not just a thread, but a symbol of protection and blessings for his new journey.
Furthermore, during Raksha Bandhan, when a sister ties a rakhi on her brother’s wrist, it carries the same heartfelt wish for his safety and well-being. Whether it was tied by sages of ancient times or by loved ones today, this sacred thread represents a timeless faith—a belief in the protective power of the divine that continues to be cherished in Hindu rituals.
In Hinduism, the mauli is often tied at the start of rituals, acting as a symbol of protection and devotion. It is believed that the thread, once blessed, carries the power to ward off evil and bring positive energy to the wearer.
Health benefits of tying kalawa/mauli
Interestingly, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, views the wrist as more than just a part of the body—it considers it a point where vital energy channels, known as nadis, flow. I remember learning that these nadis are like pathways for energy that run through our bodies, affecting both our physical health and spiritual well-being. The simple act of tying a mauli around the wrist is believed to help balance this energy, allowing it to flow harmoniously.
I have always found this concept fascinating. Every time a priest ties the kalawa/mauli on my wrist during a ritual, I am reminded that it is not just a thread, but a tool that connects me to both physical and spiritual health. Although, it is said that when the kalawa/mauli is tied, it helps protect the body’s energy and create a balance within, offering a sense of peace and protection. Whether it’s during religious ceremonies or daily prayers, the sacred thread becomes a symbol of alignment between the body, mind, and soul, something that I feel every time it is placed on my wrist.
Why kalawa/mauli is tied on wrist only?
In Sanatan Dharma, why is the kalawa used during worship and auspicious ceremonies? This sacred thread, offered to gods and goddesses, is also tied on the wrist for protection.
But what makes it so special? It’s believed that the mauli shields the wearer from negative forces and ensures success in all actions performed with those hands.
How to tie Kalawa/mauli on wrist?
Have you ever wondered why those who wear a red or yellow kalawa are said to be blessed with divine grace? God’s favour is believed to remain with them at all times. But how should one tie this sacred thread, and what are the rules? Let’s explore the proper methods, rules, and remedies of wearing the kalawa/mauli.
- The kalawa should always be tied by a Brahmin or someone older than you. Additionally, while tying the mauli, the following Mangal Mantra should be recited.
येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबल:। तेन त्वामनुबध्नामि रक्षे मा चल मा चल।।
2. Secondly, when getting the kalawa/mauli tied, the person should place a handkerchief on their head. If a handkerchief or cloth is not available, they should place one hand on their head. While the kalawa is being tied, the person’s fist should remain closed. And, some money should be placed in the closed fist, which can be given as dakshina to the Brahmin tying the kalawa afterward.
3. A man should always tie the Kalawa in his right hand and a woman should always tie it in her left hand.
4. Also, Kalawa should be wrapped and tied around the wrist of any person only three times.
5. After removing the old kalawa/mauli, it should not be kept just anywhere or carelessly discarded. Instead, according to Hindu belief, the kalawa should always be either immersed in a sacred body of water or buried in clean soil at a pure location.
6. Lastly, after a death in the household, or if the kalawa/mauli becomes impure or wears out, it should be replaced with a new one.
7. Similarly, many priests and astrologers suggest specific days for changing the kalawa. In Hinduism, auspicious days are designated for both wearing and removing the kalawa/mauli. It is recommended to change the kalawa on Tuesdays or Saturdays. However, you can wear it during any worship ceremony.
Magical remedy of kalawa tying on plants and trees
- According to Hindu belief, if the kalawa is tied with faith to sacred plants then the challenges in a person’s life are alleviated. This act is said to fulfill wishes and bring happiness, prosperity and good fortune. We can read more about them :
- Tying Kalawa on the peepal tree is said to bring the blessings of the deities and solve career problems.
- Sameways, tying Kalawa on the tulsi plant during kartik mas is believed to bring relief from life’s problems and solve financial problems.
- Also tying Kalawa on the shami plant is said to reduce the negative effects of Shani and Rahu-Kethu.
- Not only this, tying Kalawa on the banyan tree during Vat Savitri vrat is said to bring good fortune and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Remedies of tying kalawa on Kalash
- Particularly, in Navratri and Ganesh Pujan, Ghat or Kalash is installed. Kalawa is tied on the kalash to make it auspicious.
- Even, in auspicious events like Grih Pravesh, Bhagwad Katha, Havan, and Puja, kalash are installed with kalawa tied around it.
- Additionally, during the Karwa Chauth puja, women tie the kalawa to the jar of water. This sacred thread symbolizes their devotion as they offer arghya to Lord Moon. By doing so, they seek blessings for the long life and well-being of their husbands.
Also, many Hindus tie Kalawa to their newly bought vehicles, keys of home, new pens amd books during Diwali pujan or any thing auspicious to welcome positivity and blessings of God.
Benefit of wearing kalawa
Kalawa/mauli carries spiritual and cultural significance. Here are some key reasons why Hindus practice this custom:
Protection
Apparently, kalwa is tied to invite divine protection against negative energies and evil spirits. I’ve always felt a sense of security when wearing it. This sacred thread is believed to be blessed by the deities, especially during prayers and religious ceremonies. It serves as a powerful reminder of the protection that surrounds us.
Symbol of Commitment
And, the kalawa symbolizes a commitment to religious vows and responsibilities. Moreover, it represents the wearer’s devotion to a specific prayer, ritual, or fast. Each time I see it on my wrist, I am reminded not only of the promises I have made but also of the faith that guides me.
Spiritual Connection
Tying the kalawa is not just a ritual; it’s a powerful connection to the divine. Furthermore, it serves as an invocation for blessings of prosperity, health, and well-being. Likewise, blessings are bestowed from revered deities like Shri Vishnu, Lakshmi mata, Durga and Hanuman ji. Every time I tie this sacred thread, I feel a surge of positive energy, knowing that I am wrapped in their protective embrace.
Mark of Auspiciousness
As told above, this kalawa/mauli is often tied during special occasions like weddings, festivals such as Raksha Bandhan, or during a yajna (sacrificed fire ritual). It marks the start of sacred rituals and is a symbol of protection and blessings for those involved.
Divine blessings of trinity of god
Furthermore, tying kalaw is more than a ritual—it’s a beautiful way to receive the blessings of the Trideva—Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh—and the Tridevis—Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Durga. With Brahma’s blessings, we are gifted with fame, and from Vishnu, we receive protection from evil. Shiva’s grace helps us conquer our own negative traits.
At the same time, the blessings of the goddesses fill our lives with abundance. Saraswati blesses us with knowledge, Lakshmi brings prosperity, and Durga fills us with strength. Each time I tie the sacred thread, I feel embraced by these divine forces, and it’s a reminder of the divine presence guiding me at every step.
Conclusion
At the end, for many of you, the Kalawa/mauli may seem like a simple thread, but its holds great value. Its significance stretches across faith, protection and spirituality. This timeless tradition not only connects us to our ancestors but also serves as a reminder of the divine protection and blessings we seek in our daily lives.
To obtain the blessings of auspicious occasion to the most, order now your sacred Kalawa.