Introduction to the Festival:
Tulsi Vivah is a sacred ritual in Hinduism, where the marriage of Tulsi Mata (Vrinda) is solemnized with Lord Vishnu in his Shaligram form. This festival is celebrated on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of Kartik month, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi or Prabodhini Ekadashi. This marks the end of Chaturmas and is considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures.
The Legend:
According to the ancient legend, there was a devoted woman named Vrinda, who was married to the demon king Jalandhar. Due to Vrinda’s devotion and her strict adherence to the vow of marital fidelity, Jalandhar became invincible. The gods sought the help of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of Jalandhar and broke Vrinda's vow of chastity, which allowed for Jalandhar's defeat and death. When Vrinda discovered this, she cursed Lord Vishnu to become a stone and then immolated herself in the fire. From the ashes of Vrinda, the Tulsi plant grew. To honor her sacrifice and devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed Vrinda by marrying her in the form of Shaligram. This is said to be the origin of the tradition of Tulsi Vivah.
Why Do We Celebrate This Festival? Tulsi Vivah is celebrated to promote happiness, peace, prosperity, and the resolution of marital problems. It is believed that performing the Tulsi Vivah on this day brings blessings from Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. This festival symbolizes devotion, love, and dedication.
Major Traditions of the Festival:
Mandap Decoration: A canopy made of sugarcane is set up for the wedding of Tulsi and Shaligram.
Establishment of Tulsi and Shaligram: The Tulsi plant is decorated as the bride, and Shaligram is placed as the groom.
Marriage Ceremony: The marriage of Tulsi and Shaligram is conducted with Vedic mantras.
Bhajan-Kirtan: Devotional songs and kirtans are sung during the ceremony.
Prasad Distribution: After the marriage, prasad (blessed offerings) is distributed to the devotees.
Significance of the Festival:
Tulsi Vivah brings happiness and peace to married life and helps resolve marital problems. It symbolizes devotion, love, and dedication, teaching us the values of true love and loyalty.