Arunachala: Lakshmi Cow Mala

This simple mala uses dark wood beads with small silver marker beads and a handmade lampwork guru bead. Lampwork beads are handmade glass beads that are made by melting and shaping glass over a flame using a torch. These unique and artistic beads are known for their intricate designs and kaleidoscopic colors.

Simple wood bead malas with a tassel are ubiquitous in India.

Ramana Maharishi was a saint whose lifestyle was extremely simple and his teachings were extremely profound. It is said that animals were drawn to him, especially a cow named Lakshmi. There are many conflicting stories about Lakshmi and Ramana, but perhaps this one is correct: Lakshmi the Cow. In any case, it seems Ramana Maharishi transmitted his enlightenment to all sentient beings.

Arunachala (Red Mountain) is a sacred hill and holy place associated with Shiva. It is located in Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu in South India. Sri Ramana Maharshi lived here from 1899 to 1916.

A verse in the Arunachala Mahatmyam, translated from Sanskrit into Tamil by Sri Ramana Maharshi says:

"Arunachala is truly the holy place. Of all holy places it is the most sacred! Know that it is the heart of the world. It is truly Siva himself! It is his heart-abode, a secret kshetra. In that place the Lord ever abides the hill of light named Arunachala."