Planetary Mantras – James Braha

What they are, how to chant them, and why.

Listen to a recording of James Braha explaining how to chant the planetary mantras:

Below is the list of mantras for each planet, plus Rahu and Ketu. Clicking on one will take you to the page where you can begin its audio file.

List of Planetary Mantras

Click on the planetary mantra to visit its own page with the written and audio pronunciation of the mantra, required number of times it is to be chanted, and its English translation.

How to Chant a Planet’s Mantra

One may be sitting, standing, or walking while practicing, but the best effects are gained when the chanting is done softly and gently. Although the instruction of chanting does not include dwelling on the meaning of the mantra, the process should be a conscious one.

During the practice, one’s attention might naturally focus on the vibration of the sound within the body. A very peaceful and relaxing state will result when this is done properly. The chanting should be smooth and repeated somewhat in a monotone to fully appreciate the vibrations, but the rate of speed may be as quick as desired.

Each planetary mantra has a designated number of times it must be repeated. Although some peace of mind may immediately result from chanting, the desired effects connected to the significations of the planet and the houses that it rules are supposed to be realized after the allotted number of chantings have been performed.

Using Mala (Prayer) Beads

In India, beads similar to a rosary are used to count the chanting. During the practice, one bead is kept between the thumb and middle finger to keep track of the number of repetitions. The most desirable beads, according to many Hindus, are rudrakshas, which are found In India or Nepal and are considered somewhat sacred. The next best are tulsi beads, which are also sacred but easier to come by.

The Guru Bead

A string of 108 beads is used for the counting, and one bead, known as the Guru bead, is slightly protruded from the others so that one knows when the mantra has been chanted 108 times. This is called one mala. At the conclusion of one mala the person either stops or turns back, so the Guru bead is never crossed. One may chant as many or as few malas as desired during each session. In any case, it is the chanting, not the beads, which is important. Therefore, any means of counting will do. A rosary is probably the simplest way.