Visual Expressions of Mantras in North Indian Vaiṣṇava Traditions

Abstract

This paper explores the visual representations of mantras within North Indian Vaiṣṇava traditions, which differ from other traditions in their approach to the secrecy of mantras. The public recitation of specific Vaiṣṇava mantras during large religious events has inspired various types of visual representations. The popularity of these mantras resulted in their letters being incorporated into maṇḍalas. Some mantras were inscribed on objects, tattooed on the body, and printed, embroidered or woven into textiles used in ritual contexts. They have also been written down on paper in repeated succession as a meditative practice known as likhita japa, considered superior to audible (vācika), whispered (upāṃśu) or mental (mānasa) recitation. By analyzing these visual expressions, this paper seeks to enhance the understanding of multisensory perspectives on mantras.