The month of Kartik is considered very auspicious and sacred in Hinduism, during which worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi takes place. The worship of the Tulsi plant holds special significance. According to religious beliefs, Tulsi is very dear to Lord Vishnu; therefore, it is considered auspicious to worship the Tulsi plant, light a lamp near it, and circumambulate it throughout the month of Kartik. It is believed that such practices help maintain happiness, peace, and prosperity in the home.
According to astrologer Shailendra Pandey, planting the Tulsi plant and worshipping it daily during the month of Kartik brings special benefits. The religious significance of Tulsi and the rules for its worship during this month are discussed further.
The Connection Between Tulsi and Lord Vishnu
In Hinduism, nature is also revered as a form of God, and rivers, mountains, and plants are associated with deities. This is why the Tulsi plant is considered very pure and holds a divine place. Furthermore, Tulsi possesses numerous medicinal properties. According to mythological history, the connection between Tulsi and Lord Vishnu is linked to a curse and a blessing. This story is also connected to the tradition of worshipping the form of Vishnu Shaligram, which necessitates placing Tulsi leaves during the worship of Shaligram. In addition to Lord Vishnu, Tulsi leaves hold special significance when worshipping Rama and Krishna.
Why is it Auspicious to Plant the Tulsi Plant in the Month of Kartik?
Astrologer Shailendra Pandey states that planting the Tulsi plant on Thursday is considered auspicious. Planting Tulsi in the month of Kartik holds particular importance. There is a belief that daily worship of Tulsi and performing Tulsi Vivah (Tulsi wedding) during this month brings happiness and prosperity into the home, while also maintaining the favor of Lord Vishnu. The Tulsi plant should be placed in a spot in the house where morning sunlight and fresh air reach it. It can be placed in an inner courtyard, or if one lives in an apartment, it can be planted on a balcony.
How to Worship Tulsi in the Month of Kartik?
During the month of Kartik, after morning ablutions, the Tulsi plant should be watered with water. Then, one should join hands in prayer and perform a circumambulation of the plant. It is also considered auspicious to light a ghee lamp near the Tulsi in the evening. According to religious beliefs, worshipping with a lit lamp at the base of Tulsi during the month of Kartik brings the grace of Lord Vishnu.
Rules to Follow During Tulsi Worship
Several important rules must be observed when worshipping Tulsi. According to astrologer Shailendra Pandey, Tulsi leaves should only be collected in the morning, avoiding collection at other times of the day. Although it is considered auspicious to offer Tulsi leaves to the gods Vishnu, Rama, and Krishna, they should not be offered to the gods Ganesha and Mother Durga. If Tulsi leaves are collected in advance, they can be used in rituals because they do not spoil quickly. Additionally, it is necessary to maintain cleanliness around the Tulsi plant and light a ghee lamp near it in the evening. Religious belief states that regular worship of Tulsi in the month of Kartik helps maintain happiness, peace, and positivity in the home.