Today marks the beginning of a special four-month-long worship and adoration of the Tulsi plant, which is considered a symbol of Lord Vishnu in the Sanatan Vedic tradition.
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu goes to sleep in the Kshirsagar Ocean from Ashar Shukla Ekadashi to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, and this period is known as Chaturmasa or the four months of Vishnu’s sleep.
There are 24 Ekadashis in a year, and devotees who can afford to fast on all of them do so, while those who cannot fast for the entire four months observe eight Ekadashis during this period.
Harishayani Ekadashi Celebrations
On the occasion of Harishayani Ekadashi, devotees throng the temples of Lord Narayan and Vishnu across the country, including the famous Bhuudhanilkantha temple in Kathmandu.
Devotees observe a special fast on this day, eating only fruits and avoiding grains like rice and wheat.
The Tulsi plant, which is considered sacred, is also worshipped on this day, and its leaves are used in various rituals and ceremonies.
Significance of Tulsi
Tulsi is not only considered sacred but also has several health benefits, and its leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicine to cure various ailments.
According to scientists, the Tulsi plant is a rich source of oxygen, and its presence in a house is believed to purify the air and drive away diseases.
In addition, the Tulsi plant is also believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to a household.
Marriage of Tulsi and Damodar
After four months of worship and adoration, the Tulsi plant is married to Lord Damodar on the day of Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, also known as Haribodhini Ekadashi.
This ritual is performed with great fanfare, and a special havan ceremony is also performed to mark the end of the Chaturmasa fast.
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