The Mangala Ashtottara is a sacred collection of 108 names of the planet Mars (Mangala), revered in Vedic astrology as the bestower of courage, strength, and victory. The primary textual source for this mantra is the *Mangala Ashtottara* found in the *Nārada Purāṇa* and the *Bṛhat Parāśara Horāśāstra*, where the 108 names are enumerated for propitiation. Each name encapsulates a distinct attribute of Mangala, such as 'Kuja' (the earth-born), 'Bhauma' (son of Earth), and 'Angaraka' (the burning coal).
The beej-akshara (seed syllable) 'Kram' (क्रां) is often associated with Mangala, as prescribed in the *Mantra Mahodadhi*, and is believed to activate the fiery energy of the planet. Phonetically, the mantra employs plosive and guttural sounds that resonate with the element of fire (agni), which governs Mangala's nature. Traditional purpose includes invoking Mangala's blessings for courage, protection from enemies, success in competitive endeavors, and removal of obstacles related to land disputes.
The *Devi Mahatmya* also references Mangala as a guardian of the directions, reinforcing his protective aspect. Recommended chanting context: ideally recited on Tuesdays (Mangalavara) during the waxing moon phase, with a count of 108 times using a red coral (moonga) or red sandalwood mala. The ritual setting should include a red cloth, offerings of red flowers (especially hibiscus), and lighting a ghee lamp.
Cautions: due to Mangala's aggressive nature, the mantra should be chanted with pure intent and not for harming others; it is advised to avoid chanting during inauspicious periods like Rahu Kala. The *Mantra-Yoga-Samhita* emphasizes that the practitioner must maintain a sattvic diet and celibacy during the chanting period to avoid adverse effects.
Om, salutations to Bhauma (Mars), the son of Earth, with the seed syllables krāṃ krīṃ krauṃ.
The mantra contains the three seed syllables krāṃ, krīṃ, krauṃ, which are beej-aksharas for Mars. 'Krāṃ' activates the fiery nature, 'krīṃ' bestows courage, and 'krauṃ' grants victory. The syllable 'saḥ' is a connecting bija. These are prescribed in the Mantra Mahodadhi for propitiating Mangala.