From a satsang with Pt. Umadutt Maharaj, Spiritual Leader, SWAHA Bhakti Jyot Mandali
During the auspicious month of Kaartik, we are guided to contemplate the profound significance of the divine tulsi plant, an emblem of sanctity and spiritual reverence.
“At the root of the tulsi reside all holy places.
On the branches of the tulsi reside the Gods.
The leaves represent the various yagyas.
Mother Tulsi, I offer prostration to you.”
In the ancient sacred epic, the Ramaayana, Shree Hanumanji’s quest for the kidnapped Sita Maata led him to a pivotal discovery in Lanka. Amidst the enchanting setting of Vibheeshan’s humble abode, he found resplendent tulsi plants, a symbol of the devotion of Shree Ram’s ardent devotee. This encounter filled Hanumanji with immense joy, as the plants were a sign that it was a sanctuary where he could seek divine guidance in his search for Sita Maa. Such is the profound importance of the sacred tulsi plant.
The Devi Bhagwat is replete with references to the veneration of the tulsi. It strongly recommends the worship of this sacred plant during the auspicious month of Kaartik, which commenced on October 29, 2023. It is during this sacred period that devout worshippers can reap the manifold blessings of the tulsi; it is believed that all legitimate desires will result in fulfilment. Thus, it becomes paramount to honour and respect this purifying plant. The tulsi plant’s significance even extends to the realm of Ayurvedic medicine, where its therapeutic properties offer health and healing for numerous ailments.
In the Devi Bhagwat, Brahmaji imparts the invaluable merits of worshipping Tulsi Maa:
- Tulsi Maa must be revered during Satyanarayan Puja, for she stands as the foremost among plants, as dear to Narayana as life itself.
- Devotees who honour Tulsi Maa remain complete, untouched by negativity, and liberated from all worldly bonds.
- Worship of Tulsi brings one closer to Shree Krishna, fostering a profound spiritual connection.
- In the absence of Ganga jal, placing a tulsi leaf in the water purifies it, bestowing it with the sanctity of Ganga jal
- Offering water infused with tulsi leaves to Bhagwan equals the merits of thousands of water offerings to Vishnu Bhagwan.
- The rewards of gow daan (offering a cow) can be obtained by offering tulsi leaves, especially during the month of Kaartik.
- Consuming tulsi water at the time of one’s departure, following a virtuous life, leads to liberation and the divine abode of Vishnu.
- Our revered gurus counsel us to hold a tulsi leaf and water daily, facing the eastern sun, reciting the Guru mantra seven times, and partaking of it for spiritual purification.
- Ayurvedic physicians suggest that consuming three neem leaves and a tulsi leaf each morning, before any other sustenance, purifies the intestines.
- Wearing a tulsi garland around the neck bestows positive energy and amplifies divine vibrations.
- Holding a tulsi leaf while speaking ensures truthfulness and integrity.
- The use of tulsi in shraadh ceremonies infuses them with sanctity and positive vibrations.
- A dawn visit to the tulsi plants, accompanied by pranayama (breathing exercises), purifies the mind and elevates oxygen levels in the brain.
- Worship of Tulsi grants all siddhis, divine powers.
- The mantra, “Om Sreem Hreem Kleem Aim Brindavan Yai Swaha” is an eminent daily offering to Tulsi, known as the king of all mantras, akin to the mythical tree of life that ushers in prosperity.
- One who venerates Tulsi Maa is cherished and honoured by all, including Vishnu Bhagavan Himself.
- Without the presence of tulsi, offerings lack purification, and tulsi is incorporated in prasad and water offerings.
- Those who listen to the glories of Tulsi Maa are liberated from disease and suffering, breaking free from the cycle of birth and death, becoming fearless and sinless.
- Amidst countless flora and fauna, tulsi is accorded the highest reverence, providing inner tranquillity. It stands as the holiest of all botanical life.
- Any place graced by the presence of tulsi becomes sanctified, and those who venerate Tulsi Maa are promised liberation from the cycle of birth and death, mukti.
As the auspicious Kaartik period unfolds, let us earnestly seek the blessings of divinity in the form of Tulsi Maa through dedicated worship, and in doing so, earn the eternal grace of the Divine Mother.
