The power of the rudraksha was discovered during the Vedic ages. Our ancient books sing paeans to these wonderful beads, which are known to have medicinal and astrological properties.

Today, the rudraksha is fast gaining popularity as an alternative therapy to conventional medicine. Mrs. Indira Gandhi wore them. So did Yehudi Menuhin. The rudraksha berry (Elaeocarpus Ganitrus) was first spotted in Indonesia and is now grown in Nepal and the Himalayas.

The Rudraksha which is believed to symbolise the link between earth and heaven, finds mention in the updated Jabal Rudraksha Upanishad. The modern day scholars however believe that these wonderful beads transcend religion and can be used as a mala, rosary or tasbih.