Frequently asked
Answers to what devotees most often ask. If yours is here, WhatsApp us.
Materials & authenticity
Are your Tulsi malas real?
Yes. Every Tulsi mala is carved from the actual sacred Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum / Krishna Tulsi) plant, sourced from Vrindavan-region cultivators who grow specifically for mala use. The beads are cut, drilled, and polished by hand — you can feel the natural wood grain.
How many beads is a japa mala?
Traditional japa mala is 108 beads plus one sumeru (head) bead — total 109. You chant one mantra per bead, moving through the mala once for a 'round'. Kanthi malas (worn around the neck daily) are shorter, typically 27-54 beads.
How do I care for my Tulsi mala?
Keep it dry — remove before bathing. Do not let non-devotees touch it if that is your tradition. If the thread wears out, we offer re-stringing service. A well-cared-for Tulsi mala can last decades.
Can I return a mala?
Yes — 7 days from delivery, no questions asked. Because the mala is blessed and packed with kirtan, we ask that you handle it respectfully during any return. Refund is processed within 5 working days of receipt.
When will other products (tilak, lockets, prasad boxes) launch?
We're launching one sacred essential at a time, each done properly. Tilak & chandan is next — expected in the coming months. Follow us on Instagram @kishori.co_ to hear first.
Getting your order
How long does shipping take?
Metro cities: 3-5 working days. Rest of India: 5-8 working days. All orders ship from Vrindavan via tracked courier. You'll get an SMS + WhatsApp tracking link once dispatched.
Do you ship internationally?
Not yet — currently India-only. International shipping is coming in late 2026. Add your email at checkout and we'll notify you.
Is COD available?
Yes. Cash on Delivery is available for orders up to ₹5,000 across all serviceable pincodes in India. A ₹50 COD handling fee applies.
Free shipping?
Yes — free standard shipping on all orders above ₹999.
Abhimantrit & tradition
What does Abhimantrit mean?
Abhimantrit means 'invested with mantra'. Every piece is chanted over, offered at our altar in Vrindavan, and touched to the deity before dispatch. Read the full ritual →
Do I still need to get my mala consecrated by a priest?
Depends on your tradition. If you follow a specific guru-sampradaya (initiation lineage), the guru's blessing is separate. Kishori's abhimantrit is a small first offering — a respectful starting point, not a replacement for parampara consecration.
Are your products vegetarian / cruelty-free?
Yes. All products are vegetarian. No animal-derived components in any mala, tilak, locket, or packaging.