On ekadashi, mother Tulsi also observes nirjala fast for Lord Vishnu. Therefore, on this day, water should not be offered to the basil plant
Fasting on Ekadashi holds great religious significance in Hinduism. The Ekadashi that falls during the Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month is called Papankusha Ekadashi. It is believed that this fast removes the old sins of a person and brings happiness and prosperity to life. Lord Vishnu’s Padmanabha form is worshiped on this day.
The worship of Lord Vishnu on Ekadashi is not complete unless Tulsi is used in it. This is the reason why Tulsi Pujan holds special importance on Papankusha Ekadashi. A persons good karma multiplies by worshiping tulsi on this day. Let us know why Tulsi Pujan is necessary on this day and what are its rules.
Bhog is incomplete without Tulsi: Tulsi Dal is very dear to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that whatever food is offered to Srihari on Ekadashi, it must contain Tulsi leaves, otherwise it is believed that bhog is incomplete
Freedom from sins: It is believed that circumambulating Tulsi plant on Papankusha Ekadashi and lighting a ghee lamp in the evening will remove the sins committed intentionally or unintentionally.
Happiness and peace in the home: Sitting near Tulsi in the evening and chanting the mantra ‘Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevai’ removes negative energy from the house and brings blessings to the family.
Important rules of Tulsi Pujan
While performing Tulsi Puja on Ekadashi, it is very important to keep certain things in mind, otherwise, instead of virtue, you may incur sin.
ALSO READ: Silver toe ring helps to regulate blood circulation
Do not pluck leaves: It is strictly forbidden to pluck basil leaves on Ekadashi. If you need leaves for pooja or bhog, then pluck them a day before (on Dashami Tithi). Or you can wash the fallen leaves under the plant and use them in worship.
Do not offer water: According to religious belief, on the day of Ekadashi, Mother Tulsi also observes nirjala fast for Lord Vishnu. Therefore, on this day, water should not be offered to the basil plant. Doing so breaks her fast.
Light a lamp in the evening: Light a lamp of pure cow’s ghee near the Tulsi plant in the evening and circumambulate it at least 7 or 11 times.
