24 March, 2026

21 Types of Rudraksha: What Each Type Means and Its Benefits

21 Types of Rudraksha: What Each Type Means and Its Benefits

Rudraksha holds a very important position in Hindu spirituality for several reasons because it is considered to have divine energy and healing properties. 

There are 21 types of Rudraksha, and they have different meanings. Each rudraksha impacts life in ways you can’t even imagine. 

From spiritual growth to emotional balance, every Rudraksha carries a unique vibration connected to Lord Shiva.

What is Rudraksha

Rudraksha is basically a sacred seed that is used in prayer beads and malas, and they are most importantly used in honour of Lord Shiva. 

You might have noticed Lord Shivji painting wearing a rudraksha. There is a story behind it. As per mythology, once Shivji went into deep meditation. 

Everyone got confused about whether he is alive or not. To prove that he is alive, he shed a tear, which was called a Rudraksha. Here, ‘Rudra’ means Shiv and ‘aksh’ means tears, which means protection, compassion and fulfilment. 

Another very interesting thing about Rudraksha is that they’re grown on a tree which is named Elaeocarpus ganitrus, which is found in the Himalayan region. 

That is why they’re also known as ‘Himalayan seeds’. Rudraksha even has many medicinal properties. 

It is said that anyone can wear Rudraksha. It does not matter which gender, religion or caste they belong to. 

It just resonates with positive energy and brings peace and positivity in life.

What is Mukhi in Rudraksha?

The word “mukhi” in rudraksha refers to the number of natural lines on the surface of the Rudraksha bead

Each mukhi talks about the bead’s energy. For example, a 5 mukhi Rudraksha has five natural lines, and it is known to have calming and balancing effects.

21 Types of Rudraksha and its types

 Let’s explore all types of Rudraksha with their benefits. Talking about types, there are 21 varieties of Rudraksha that depend on the number of stripes it has. 

Rudraksha Type

Meaning

1 Mukhi Rudraksha

This represents Lord Shiva himself, who is known as the supreme god.  This bead is used for peace and serenity, and it is for those who are looking for moksha.

2 Mukhi Rudraksha

It is two face beads. It represents the bond between divine and masculine energies known as Ardhanarishwara (Shiva-Parvati). Wearing this can enhance love in a relationship.

3 Mukhi Rudraksha

The three face beads represent Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. It can help bring clarity and minimise anger and rage. 

4 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is linked to the four Vedas. It signifies wisdom, knowledge and power. It can help in concentration, strong memory and enhancing knowledge. 

5 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is linked to the 5 natural elements of earth and represents the balance of life. It is good for balance and creating a connection with nature.   

6 Mukhi Rudraksha

Many athletes and soldiers wear it because it is believed to enhance willpower and help control anxiety. 

7 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is connected to Goddess Lakshmi ji, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. It also helps maintain inner discipline and supports spiritual progress, abundance and prosperity. 

8 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is linked to Ganesh, who removes obstacles. This bead is worn to remove challenges and problems from your path.

9 Mukhi Rudraksha

9 Mukhi is blessed by Navadurga. It helps in discipline, clarity, and getting positive energy. 

10 Mukhi Rudraksha

This bead is blessed by 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu. It is also linked to Vastu correction and places in the entrances of offices/homes. 

11 Mukhi Rudraksha

This bead describes Lord Shiva’s 11th form, which is Lord Hanuman.  It helps you get physical and mental strength. 

12 Mukhi Rudraksha

This bead is linked to Surya devta. It can enhance leadership qualities and decision-making practices.

13 Mukhi Rudraksha

This bead is very rare to find. It is known for enhancing charm, attraction and personal magnetism. It also supports marital relationships. 

14 Mukhi Rudraksha

The most powerful bead. Linked with Saturn and lord Hanuman. It gives you courage and reduces negative energies around you.  

15 Mukhi Rudraksha

Very rare to find. Protects from chronic diseases and brings emotional healing, mental clarity and deep inner peace. 

16 Mukhi Rudraksha

This bead represents victory over death and fear. It helps in dispelling chronic disease and negativity. 

17 Mukhi Rudraksha

17 Mukhi Rudraksh is blessed by Lord Vishwakarma. It is known to activate creativity, mastery and innovative thinking. 

18 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is linked to bringing stability, nourishment and abundance. It is also blessed by Bhumi Dev (Mother Earth). 

19 Mukhi Rudraksha

It is said that this bead has the ability to open up the 7 chakras of humans. But it is quite rare to find.  

20 Mukhi Rudraksha

The beads are associated with Lord Brahma. It can bring calm and profound changes in life. 

21 Mukhi Rudraksha

This is extremely rare! It is associated with Lord Kuber and brings wealth, money and prosperity. 

 

Quick Tips to Wear Rudraksh

  • Make sure when you select Rudraksh as per the goal, you consult an expert or a spiritual guide. 

  • Wear it properly on clean skin. You can wear it around the neck or on the right wrist. 

  • Chant “Om Namah Shivay” before wearing it

  • Try to wear it on Monday

Significance + Usage

Don’t ever think that Rudraksha beads are some kind of accessory that you can wear. They are the tools of transformation. 

They are used for meditation, prayer and healing. If you wear it correctly under the right guidance, it can benefit you in great ways. 

Many people also place Rudraksha malas near Lord Shivji’s painting. If you are looking for a beautiful painting of Shivji, then Soulful Painting can be the right place for you. 

They have a great collection of God’s artwork made by professionals who are talented in their craft. 

FAQs

1. How many types of Rudraksh are there? 

Answer : There are 21 types of Rudraksha. 

2. Can anyone wear Rudraksh, or are there some restrictions? 

Answer : If one is respectful and has proper intentions, then anyone can wear it. It does not matter which caste, age or gender you belong to. 

3. How to tell if a Rudraksha is original?

Answer : You can find original lines on the beads known as Mukhis. They are sources from Nepal or Indonesia. Make sure you buy it from a trusted seller.