Story of Tulasi , why it is worshipped in home and temples

Tulasi, also known as Vrinda, was a devout and virtuous maiden. She was deeply devoted to Lord Vishnu and spent her life in penance and prayer, seeking his blessings. Her devotion was so intense that it caught the attention of the gods and demons alike.

According to the legend, Tulasi was married to the demon king Jalandhar, who possessed great power and invincibility. Jalandhar's strength was derived from the unwavering chastity and devotion of Tulasi. As long as Tulasi remained pure and devoted to Jalandhar, no one could defeat him.

Jalandhar, emboldened by his invincibility, began to challenge the gods and wreak havoc in the heavens. The gods, unable to defeat Jalandhar, sought the help of Lord Vishnu to restore order. Lord Vishnu devised a plan to weaken Jalandhar's power. Disguising himself as Jalandhar, Vishnu approached Tulasi and managed to deceive her into believing that he was her husband. Tulasi, unaware of the deception, welcomed Vishnu with open arms, thus breaking her vow of chastity.

As a result, Jalandhar lost his divine protection and was defeated by the gods. When Tulasi realized that she had been deceived, she was heartbroken and felt betrayed by Lord Vishnu. In her grief and anger, she cursed Vishnu, condemning him to turn into a black stone (Shaligram) and be separated from his beloved Lakshmi.

Moved by Tulasi's devotion and sorrow, Vishnu revealed his true form and consoled her. He then blessed Tulasi, transforming her into the sacred Tulasi plant. Vishnu declared that Tulasi would be worshipped alongside him and that her leaves would always be an essential part of his offerings.

The story of Tulasi and Vishnu is commemorated in the festival of Tulasi Vivah, which marks the ceremonial marriage of the Tulasi plant (representing goddess Tulasi) with Lord Vishnu, symbolized by a Shaligram stone or Krishna idol. This festival is celebrated with great devotion and joy, signifying the union of the divine and the earthly.

The legend of Tulasi and Vishnu highlights the themes of devotion, sacrifice, and the divine interplay between the gods and their devotees. It underscores the importance of faith and the belief that true devotion can transcend even the greatest of adversities.