Author: Azur Ekić
Mantras are frequencies codified to create a certain effect. So each mantra has a different reason and a purpose. Mantras are a conglomeration of words to create a certain frequency within you – Mohanji
Why Chant?
Chanting has several purposes. It stabilizes the mind by bringing breath, sound, and meaning together in one stream of attention. It purifies the subtle system, reducing the impact of negative impressions while building inner strength and clarity. Mohanji encourages adopting a familiar mantra and integrating it into daily life – on the breath, during travel, before sleep, and between tasks. Through consistent repetition, a mantra ceases to be just sound and becomes a living presence that carries us into silence.
Guidelines for Practice
Mohanji offers clear guidance on how to practice mantra chanting. First, familiarity is essential. In formal sadhana, chant only a mantra you know well. If a Guru has given you a mantra, that is considered the most suitable for your constitution. Consistency is more important than intensity; a sustainable daily count, such as 108 repetitions, builds depth through constancy. Full attention should be placed on sound, meaning, and breath while maintaining a neutral spine. When the mind wanders, one should gently return to the mantra. He also emphasizes that a sattvic lifestyle – grounded in non-violence, gratitude, and purity – multiplies the effects of chanting. Finally, collective practice, such as Mohanji Conscious Chanting sessions, can amplify the momentum and stabilize beginners more quickly.
Protective Practices
Mohanji often recommends protective chants during periods of vulnerability or turbulence. Examples include kavacham mantras, Hanuman Chalisa, and the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra. These are used to create a stabilizing field around the practitioner and to act as subtle armor in times of challenge.
Core Mantras
Among the many mantras, several are frequently highlighted by Mohanji.
The Gayatri Mantra is associated with illumination and elevation. It refines intellect and clarity while offering protection. Mohanji recommends daily chanting with full concentration, usually in counts of 18, 54, or 108.
The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is known for healing, fearlessness, and protection through surrender to the immortal aspect of Shiva. It is especially recommended during illness, recovery, or intense transformation, typically chanted in rounds of 108.
Hanuman Chalisa invokes devotion, courage, and removal of obstacles. It strengthens determination and neutralizes fear. This chant is suitable for daily or weekly recitation, and in group settings it creates a strong protective atmosphere.
Protective kavacham mantras, such as Shiva Kavacham or Devi/Anjaneya Kavacham, are used during challenging phases, travel, new undertakings, or periods of spiritual intensification. These are to be approached with reverence and consistency.
Note to reader: Shiva Kavacham, chanted by Mohanji, can only be received if shared by a Mai-Tri practitioner, the reason for this being the aformentioned fact of reverence and respect. It needs to be ensured that the person receiving this kavacham will treat it with a sense of sanctity and will keep it a secret.
Seed Sounds and Foundational Chants
Mohanji also emphasizes foundational sounds such as Om, the primordial vibration that aligns breath, mind, and prana, and Hreem, a bija associated with the heart-space and the manifesting power of consciousness. He often highlights the universal chant Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu, a benediction for the welfare of all beings, to cultivate expansiveness beyond self-interest. Ganesha, Shiva, and Vishnu mantras are also recommended to clear obstacles and stabilize awareness.
Mohanji Conscious Chanting (MCC)
MCC is a structured approach developed by Mohanji for individuals and groups. It emphasizes selecting appropriate mantras based on readiness and affinity, maintaining clear pronunciation and rhythmic breath-awareness, and using measured counts, usually 108. Importantly, the practice is devotional and non-transactional, focused on alignment rather than outcomes.
Japa Yoga in Daily Life
Mohanji encourages weaving mantra into daily life. This can be done with a mala of 108 beads, or by pairing the mantra softly with the breath throughout the day. Anchor moments, such as beginning and ending the day with a set number of repetitions, or chanting before meals, meetings, and travel, are effective. After each round, silence should be observed to allow assimilation. Progression should be gentle; depth matters more than speed or volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can different mantras be mixed in one session?
- Mohanji advises that for formal practice only one mantra should be used, while in informal devotion multiple mantras can be chanted.
Is Sanskrit pronunciation critical?
- Correct pronunciation affects frequency, so one should learn patiently. Group practice and guided tracks are useful aids.
Do I need initiation?
- Public mantras can be practiced without initiation, but if a Guru has given a mantra it should be prioritized. Advanced practices such as Consciousness Kriya, however, require initiation.
How fast will results appear?
- Mohanji cautions against transactional expectations. Results depend on consistency, inner purity, and surrender. The focus should remain on alignment and stability.
A Sample Daily Routine
Mohanji suggests beginning the morning with 11 to 27 rounds of Gayatri or your Guru-given mantra, followed by a brief period of silence. Midday can include a short chanting of Om or Hreem to reset. In the evening, Hanuman Chalisa or Maha Mrityunjaya may be practiced, especially during demanding periods. Before sleep, a universal prayer such as Loka Samastha provides closure and cultivates gratitude.
Ethics and Cautions
Mohanji warns against using mantra to manipulate others or to gain occult power, as this reinforces ego and delays inner stabilization. Respect for lineage and humility are essential. Mantra complements but does not replace medical treatment or professional care.
Conclusion
For Mohanji, mantra is a living bridge from noise to stillness – a direct and practical method to stabilize our frequency, protect our field, and return to the heart of awareness. By beginning with one mantra and maintaining consistency, depth naturally unfolds.
References
- Mohanji. “Japa Yoga – The Power of Mantras.” Mohanji.org.
- Mohanji. “The Importance of Chanting.” Mohanji Foundation Satsang.
- Mohanji. “Gayatri Mantra Guidance.” Mohanji.org.
- Mohanji. “Hanuman Chalisa and Protective Chants.” Mohanji Foundation.
- Mohanji. “Mohanji Conscious Chanting (MCC).” Mohanji.org.
- Mohanji. “Consciousness Kriya: Advanced Practices.” Mohanji.org.
