How Many Times Should the Raksha Sutra Be Wrapped? In Hinduism, when a person performs rituals such as *puja*, *havan*, or *yajna*—or any other auspicious ceremony—at home or at a pilgrimage site, a priest ties a *Raksha Sutra* (protective thread) or *Kalava* around their wrist. In some regions, it is also known as *Mauli*. Priests typically wrap this thread around the wrist three or five times. While some people wrap the *Kalava* only once, others wrap it seven or more times. This raises the question: how many times should the *Raksha Sutra* be wrapped—three, five, or seven times?

How many times should the *Raksha Sutra* be wrapped around the wrist?
Generally, when the *Raksha Sutra* is tied, it is wrapped at least three times; this is the practice followed by most priests. Some people wrap it five times. Ideally, the *Raksha Sutra* or *Kalava* should be wrapped three or five times.

Significance of wrapping the *Raksha Sutra* three times

Wrapping the *Raksha Sutra* three times connects it to the *Tridev* (the Holy Trinity) and the *Trishakti* (the three supreme feminine powers). In Hinduism, the *Tridev* comprises Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva), while the *Trishakti* consists of Goddesses Mahalakshmi, Mahasaraswati, and Mahakali. Wrapping the thread three times invokes protection from these divine forces; they safeguard the individual.

Significance of wrapping the *Kalava* five times

Wrapping the *Kalava* or *Raksha Sutra* five times connects it to the *Pancha Tattva* (the five elements) of the universe: Earth, Sky (Space), Water, Fire, and Air. The human body is composed of these elements. Wrapping the *Raksha Sutra* five times symbolizes the balancing and protection of these five elements.

On which hand should the *Raksha Sutra* be tied? Men should have the *Raksha Sutra* tied on their right wrist, whereas the custom for married women is to have it tied on the left wrist. For girls and unmarried young women, it can be tied on the right wrist.

One should not keep the hand open while the *Raksha Sutra* is being tied; instead, the fist should be clenched. The *Raksha Sutra* should be tied while mantras are being chanted. After it is tied, *Dakshina* (a ritual offering) is given to the *Pandit* or priest.

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