Tulsi Vivah is the symbolic wedding of sacred Tulsi to Shaligram (considered as Lord Vishnu). This ritual is observed in the month of Kartik. The sacred wedding is observed on different dates by different communities.

Some observe Tulsi vivah on the Ekadasi day after Amavasi in the Kartik month which is also called Dev-Uttani Ekadashi or Probodini Ekadasi. Some observe on the next day of ekadashi that is on Chilku Dwadashi. In some places Tulsi Vivah is observed on Kartik Poornima where as in some places it is a whole 5-day festival dedicated to sacred Tulsi.

The above dates in the year of 2009 are 29th October, 30th October and 2nd November respectively.

The Legend: Tulsi, a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, was married to demon Jalandhar. Jalandhar was the king of oceans and all the water bodies. He had immense powers. He challenged demigods and harassed saints and sages. All the demigods approached Lord Vishnu for help.

Lord Vishnu took form of Jalandhar and stayed with Tulsi without her suspect. When Tulsi came to know about the death of Jalandhar, the truth of Lord Vishnu was revealed. In her wrath, Tulsi decided to give up her body and Lord Vishnu changed Himself as stone which is called Shaligram. Lord Vishnu declared that those who perform the sacred marraige of Tulsi with Shaligram will get meritious divine wealth (Daivi Sampat) and devotion to Lord Vishnu.

The Ritual: The ritual of Tulsi Vivah is performed in the evening. Devotees observe fast for the day and in evening they decorate Tulsi plant just as a bride is decorated before going to get married. Tulsi Vrindavan is decorated with branches of amla and sugarcane. Colorful clothes, sindur, flowers are offered to Tulasi.

Vedic mantras are chanted and at the time of Muhurta, Tulsi Lagna, the sacred marraige is performed. Several dishes are prepared and offered to Tulsi Devi and Lord Vishnu. Prasad is distributed among the devotees. This marriage marks the auspicious beginning of the marraige season for Hindus.