Tulsi Vivah

What is the story behind Tulsi Vivah?

Tulsi Vivah is the union between Tulsi and Lord Vishnu in his Krishna avatar. This festival is observed in almost all parts of India and often marks the beginning of the Hindu wedding season. The Tulsi Vivah story in English is unique, from where we get to know the Tulsi Vivah history and the significance of Tulsi Vivah. In addition, it also revolves around the tale of how Tulsi was transformed into the holy plant. Here is the story behind Tulsi Vivah:

Vrinda, a righteous and beautiful woman, was a dedicated devotee of Lord Vishnu and was married to Jalandhar, a demon. Her uncompromising love and devotion for her husband and Lord Vishnu made Jalandhar a strong and unbeatable demon. Eventually, Jalandhar’s power grew, and he became a threat to Lord Shiva. Shiva, angered by Jalandhar, decided to trick Vrinda by taking the form of Jalandhar and deceiving her into breaking her purity.

Vrinda, when she realised what had happened to her, cursed Vishnu to become the Shalingam stone and turned herself into the Tulsi plant. Seeing all this, Vishnu promised to be by her side through lifetimes and said that he would marry her in his next lifetime. Thus, Tulsi’s marriage came to be with Lord Krishna. Tulsi husband is Lord Krishna, but also the Shalingam stone avatar of Lord Vishnu.

What is the significance of Tulsi Vivah?

Since Tulsi is known as a manifestation of Goddess Laxmi, and Lord Krishna is known as the manifestation of Lord Vishnu, the marriage between Tulsi and Krishna is a grand affair. While some regions observe Tulsi Vivah as the marriage ceremony between Tulsi and Lord Vishnu, some other areas focus on the union between Tulsi and Sri Krishna. This union holds vital significance in Hindu culture and is seen as a holy union.

Typically, people without daughters perform the Kanyadaan ceremony for Tulsi, and it is believed that this would ensure the birth of a girl child. Moreover, in other traditions, Tulsi and Krishna are wed to welcome abundance, prosperity, and happiness. Devotees firmly believe that performing Tulasi Pooja will ensure that they do not face shortage or lack in their lives. Most Tulsi Vivah rituals are performed by women who are looking to get married and seek the right partner for themselves.

Furthermore, women who perform Tulasi Pooja and Vivah are said to be blessed with a happy marital life, good children, and a good partner. Lastly, it is also widely considered that individuals who perform the act of giving away Tulsi will always receive blessings and will even be able to relieve themselves of karmic burdens.

What are the rituals and remedies involved in Tulsi Vivah?

There are several rituals involved in Tulsi Vivah, and most of these traditions are rooted deep in our Hindu culture. According to Hindu culture and tradition, Tulsi is a holy plant and should be treated as such. People should not do things that might offend Mata Tulsi and Lord Vishnu. Like the traditions followed during traditional Hindu weddings, the Tulasi festival or Tulsi Vivah also follows similar rituals. There is a bride’s side and a groom’s side.

According to Tulsi Vivah history, this is a special occasion that focuses on the divine energy and marital happiness shared between couples. Following the proper rituals, which are performing Tulasi Pooja or Tulasi festival during Tulsi Vivah, is essential. Here are some of the common rituals and important things to remember during Tulsi Vivah:

Tulsi Vivah Rituals:

• Tulsi Vivah should be performed in the right direction, and the Tulsi plant and Lord Vishnu’s idol should be placed in the right direction as per Vastu Shastra.
• Tulsi should not be kept bare on the ground; instead, it should be placed in an earthen pot during the rituals.
• It is advisable only to use silver, copper, or metal vessels and utensils, and plastic items should be avoided.
• One should start their day early, bathe, adorn clean clothes, and observe a fast. However, individuals who cannot keep the Vrata should only consume milk or fruits, and non-vegetarian items should be strictly avoided.
• Make sure to touch Tulsi with washed and clean hands.
• The fast should be observed until it is time for the grand wedding celebrations. However, people who choose to continue with the fast can end it after all the rituals are over.
• Decorate the Tulsi plant like a bride, and adorn Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna’s idol with flowers and other decorative items. One should also place a Dhoti on this idol or picture.
• Before the actual ceremonies begin, bathe Tulsi and Tulsi husband, Krishna or Vishnu, and then adorn them with flowers again.

Tulsi Vivah Remedies

• Chanting Sri Hari can alleviate any adverse effects on marriage.
• Offering sweets such as Gulab Jamun, Kheer, and Badam Halwa will please Tulsi and ensure happiness and prosperity in the home.
• Lighting ghee lamps and incense sticks are also a good remedy for mental turmoil.
• Chanting the Tulsi Strotam can ensure prosperity and abundance.
• Donating to the Tulsi plant can also help in resolving marriage delays.

While the rituals for Tulsi Vivah can vary from region to region, they don't lose their spark and charm. Much like other Hindu weddings, Tulsi Vivah is also a grand affair in temples and homes alike.

Conclusion

The Tulsi Vivah festival is an essential festival in Hindu culture and is celebrated to commemorate the holy union between Mata Tulsi and Lord Vishnu. People actively engage in this festival to please the dieties with their devotion and prayers and receive unbound blessings and grace. It is believed that people who perform Tulasi Pooja and Tulsi Vivah will always be blessed with joy and prosperity. This festival is important because of the benefits it brings to the lives of people.