The Kundalini Granthi Mantras are a set of three bija mantras used to pierce the three granthis (psychic knots) that obstruct the ascent of Kundalini Shakti through the sushumna nadi. According to the Shat-Chakra-Nirupana (verses 49-51), these granthis are located at the Muladhara (Brahma Granthi), Anahata (Vishnu Granthi), and Ajna (Rudra Granthi) chakras. The mantras are: 'Om Brahma Granthi' for the root knot, 'Om Vishnu Granthi' for the heart knot, and 'Om Rudra Granthi' for the brow knot.
Each mantra is chanted to dissolve the corresponding energetic blockage, allowing prana to flow freely. The Brahma Granthi is associated with attachment to worldly pleasures and physical existence; its piercing, as described in the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad (1.78-80), leads to the awakening of the Muladhara. The Vishnu Granthi relates to emotional attachment and interpersonal bonds; its dissolution opens the Anahata chakra for unconditional love.
The Rudra Granthi is the knot of ego and duality; its piercing at the Ajna chakra leads to the state of turiya (pure consciousness). These mantras are traditionally chanted in a ritual setting, often after purification and asana practice, with the count of 108 repetitions per granthi using a rudraksha mala. The best time is during brahma muhurta or at sunrise.
Caution is advised: these mantras should only be practiced under the guidance of a qualified guru, as premature or improper practice can cause energetic imbalances. The ultimate purpose is the unhindered rise of Kundalini to the Sahasrara, leading to liberation (moksha), as affirmed in the Tantraloka of Abhinavagupta (Chapter 29).
Om, the knot of Brahma; Om, the knot of Vishnu; Om, the knot of Rudra.
Each mantra begins with the seed syllable 'Oṁ', which is the primordial bija. The mantras are not pure bija mantras but combine Oṁ with deity names and 'Granthi'.