Mumbai: In Hinduism, the Tulsi plant is revered not just as sacred flora, but as a mother goddess in her own right. Especially significant in Vaishnav traditions, Tulsi is considered an inseparable part of Lord Vishnu’s worship. But come the month of Sawan—a time dedicated to the devotion of Lord Shiva—there’s a powerful shift in rituals. Despite being holy, Tulsi becomes untouchable. Devotees are strictly advised not to pluck Tulsi leaves during this sacred month, and the reasoning is deeply rooted in both scripture and belief.
So, why is this plant—so beloved to Lord Vishnu—avoided in Shiva worship during Sawan? Let’s explore the religious, seasonal, and spiritual reasons behind this unusual restriction and why breaking it is considered inauspicious.
The Divine Bond Between Tulsi Mata and Lord Vishnu
According to Hindu scriptures, Tulsi Mata holds a special place in Lord Vishnu’s heart. During the month of Sawan, when Lord Shiva is actively worshipped, it is believed that Vishnu enters a state of Yog Nidra (cosmic slumber). As a result, Tulsi Mata, who is closely associated with him, is said to rest as well. Disturbing her during this period—by plucking her leaves—is considered an act of spiritual disrespect. This time of rest is traditionally known as Tulsi Nishedh Kaal or the prohibition period for Tulsi.
The Scriptural Warning: Garuda Purana and More
Sacred texts such as the Garuda Purana, Padma Purana, and Vishnu Dharma Sutra provide detailed guidelines regarding this prohibition. They state that from Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi—roughly spanning from June/July to October/November—Tulsi leaves should not be plucked. This phase is marked as Tulsi Mata’s Nidra Kaal or divine slumber, and interfering with her during this time is said to invite negative karma.
Plants Need Rest Too: Tulsi’s Spiritual Downtime
In Hindu thought, plants are not mere biological entities; they are sentient beings with spiritual presence. The month of Sawan brings heavy rains, which reduces Tulsi’s ability to absorb solar energy—a vital source of its medicinal and spiritual potency. During this time, it is believed that Tulsi retreats into a meditative state. Any disturbance, especially leaf plucking, is seen as an interruption of her divine penance.
A Mistake That Can Invalidate Your Shiva Worship
Sawan is the holiest month for devotees of Lord Shiva, marked by offerings of belpatra, water, milk, and other sacred items on the Shivling. However, Tulsi is strictly prohibited in Shiva worship. If someone unknowingly plucks Tulsi leaves and offers them to Shiva, scriptures say the puja becomes fruitless. The act is not only spiritually ineffective but may also be seen as an affront to the divine order.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)