Tulsi Vivah 2023: In 2023, Devuthani Ekadashi is on 23 November. A day after this, i.e. on 24 November 2023, Tulsi Vivah will be organized. After this holy day, auspicious times for marriages and other auspicious functions begin. On the day of Tulsi Vivah, people marry Tulsi and Shaligram in their homes, which increases good fortune in their lives. In Hindu tradition, Devuthani Ekadashi marks the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his yoga nidra, and it is on the Dwadashi Tithi that the divine marriage between Lord Vishnu and Tulsi is celebrated. In the vibrant tapestry of Hindu traditions, Tulsi Vivah stands as a unique and sacred ceremony, heralding the auspicious beginning of the wedding season.
The Significance of Tulsi Vivah
Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is considered a sacred plant in Hinduism and is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Tulsi Vivah, typically performed on the Ekadashi (eleventh day) of the Kartik month, holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that participating in or witnessing this ceremony brings blessings and prosperity.
The Rituals
The ceremonies associated with Tulsi Vivah are steeped in tradition and devotion. The Tulsi plant, often grown in a central courtyard or the backyard of Hindu households, is beautifully adorned with flowers, betel leaves, and other auspicious items. The plant is then ceremoniously married to an idol or image of Lord Vishnu. The rituals are conducted with great reverence, and devotees offer prayers seeking the divine couple’s blessings for marital bliss and prosperity.
How to celebrate Tulsi Vivah
On the day of Tulsi Vivah, organizing Yagya and Katha of Satyanarayan in your home is especially beneficial. It is possible to celebrate this auspicious occasion at home or in the temple. On this day, the fast can be observed till Bahutantra or till Tulsi ji’s marriage. First, the Tulsi plant and the idol of Lord Vishnu are bathed. After that, the Tulsi plant is decorated with a red saree or chunari, jewelry, and bindi in the spirit of a bride. The idol of Lord Vishnu is dressed in dhoti. After this, both of them are tied together by means of a thread. In the marriage of Tulsi ji and Lord Vishnu, vermillion and rice are showered. After this, Prasad is distributed to all the devotees.
Celebrations Across India
Tulsi Vivah is celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion across various regions in India. Devotees participate in the ceremonies with fervor, and the atmosphere is filled with hymns, prayers, and the fragrance of incense. The wedding is often followed by a feast, symbolizing the joyous union and the beginning of the festive season.
Tulsi Vivah Beyond Rituals
Beyond its religious and spiritual significance, Tulsi Vivah reflects the deep-rooted connection between nature and the divine in Hindu philosophy. It also serves as a beautiful metaphor for the cyclical and harmonious relationship between the material and spiritual realms.
Final Thought
Tulsi Vivah is not just a ceremony; it is a celebration of love, devotion, and the harmonious balance between the earthly and the divine. As this sacred ritual marks the commencement of the wedding season, it brings communities together in joyous festivities and underscores the profound beauty of Hindu traditions.
