In Hindu tradition, Tulsi or the Holy Basil is considered as a mother. It is one of the most sacred plants and is known to be self-purifying.

Many stories and legends in the Indian Mythology beckon the reasons why Tulsi is worshipped:

Story – Tulsi cursed Lord Vishnu

One such story states that, once Tulsi Devi descended as the daughter of King Kushadvaja and was married to Jalandara, a king of demons. Jalandara drew strength from her purity and chastity. So firm was her chastity that even Lord Shiva could not defeat Jalandara in battle. All the demigods went to Lord Vishnu for help. At that time, Lord Vishnu tricked Tulsi devi to believe he was her husband, Jalandara. Her chastity was momentarily broken and taking advantage of this the demigods killed Jalandara.

On knowing the truth shei cursed Lord Vishnu to become a stone due to His stone hearted behaviour. Honouring His pure devotee, Lord Vishnu accepted this curse and promised to appear as the Saligrama shila in the Gandika river (now in Nepal). He also gave her the benediction that she will eternally reside with Him as His consort in Vaikuntha. He said that for the benefit of every one she will assume the form of a plant which will be most auspicious for anyone performing devotional service.

This is one reason that no offering to Lord Krishna is complete without the Tulsi leaf.  Its leaves decorate His feet, and are woven into beautiful garlands to be worn around His neck. The Vedic scriptures state that – ‘Krishna gives Himself to a devotee who offers Him a Tulsi leaf and a palm full of water.’

Story – Weighing Lord Krishna

Another legend states that when Devi Satyabhama weighed Lord Krishna against all her legendary wealth, the scales did not balance until a Tulsi leaf was placed on the scale by Rukmini with complete devotion. This demonstrated that even if a small object is offered with complete devotion, it has the power to outweigh all the materialistic wealth.

The wood of withered Tulsi plants is used to carve beads that devotees wear around their necks, and also use as Japa Mala for chanting the Hare Krishna mantra.

Tulsi is also revered as Goddess Lakshmi. Thus, those who wish for a healthy and prosperous life worship this plant.

Tulsi Vivaah (Marriage)

Every year Tulsi Vivaah is celebrated with grandeur. On this day, she is married to Lord Vishnu. The ceremony is performed on the 11th Day of Kartika according to the Hindu Lunar Calendar. The day falls around October mid and inaugurates the marriage season in India.

A Medicinal Plant

Apart from the profound religious significance, Tulsi is also used for its medicinal properties. It is known as the “Sanjeevani for the humankind” because all its part can be used to cure various ailments.

It is also an antibiotic. If Tulsi Tea is ingested daily, it stimulates immunity, balances body system and prolongs life. Having it’s plant at home wards off insects and mosquitoes. It is said that snakes refrain from getting anywhere close to the sacred plant. Lastly, Tulsi also generates a significant amount of oxygen which is vital for our survival.

So grow this most auspicious and beneficial plant around you and be blessed by it’s countless benefits.

Hari OM!