Tulsi Mata Aarti
The Tulsi Mata Aarti is a revered devotional practice in Hinduism, dedicated to Goddess Tulsi, embodied in the holy basil plant (Ocimum sanctum). Known as the “Queen of Herbs,” Tulsi holds a unique place in Hindu spirituality, symbolizing purity, devotion, and divine connection. The Aarti, a ritual of offering light and devotional hymns, is performed to honor Tulsi Mata, seeking her blessings for prosperity, protection, and spiritual upliftment.
Tulsi Mata Aarti
॥ Shree Tulasi Ji Ki Aarti ॥
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata,
Sabki Sukhadata Var Mata।
Sab Yogo Ke Upar,Sab Rogo Ke Upar,
Ruj Se Raksha Karke Bhav Trata।
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata।
Bahu Putri Hai Shyama, Sur Valli Hai Gramya,
Vishnu Priya Jo Tumko Seve, So Nar Tar Jata।
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata।
Hari Ke Shish Virajat Tribhuvan Se Ho Vandit,
Patit Jano Ki Tarini, Tum Ho Vikhyata।
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata।
Lekar Janma Bijan Me Aai Divya Bhavan Me,
Manav Lok Tumhi Se Sukh Sampatti Pata।
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata।
Hari Ko Tum Ati Pyari Shyam Varna Sukumari,
Prem Ajab Hai Shree Hari Ka Tum Se Nata।
Jai Jai Tulasi Mata।
Translation:
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi, victory to you,
Bestower of happiness to the world, granter of boons to all.
Above all yogas, above all diseases,
Protecting from afflictions, you liberate all beings.
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi.
Daughter of the dark hue, sacred vine of the village,
Those who serve you, dear to Vishnu, attain salvation.
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi.
Adorning Lord Hari’s head, revered across the three worlds,
Savior of the fallen, you are renowned.
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi.
Born in the wilderness, you entered divine abodes,
Through you, humanity gains peace and prosperity.
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi.
Most beloved to Lord Hari, delicate with a dark hue,
Your bond with Him is a wondrous love.
Victory to you, O Mother Tulsi.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
The Tulsi Mata Aarti is more than a ritual; it is a spiritual practice that fosters a deep connection with the divine. Its significance can be understood through several dimensions:
- Spiritual Purification: Singing the Aarti is believed to purify the mind and environment, dispelling negative energies. Tulsi’s presence in homes is said to ward off evil and invite divine grace.
- Health and Well-Being: Tulsi leaves are revered in Ayurveda for their medicinal properties, such as boosting immunity and reducing stress. The Aarti ritual reinforces the plant’s role as a healer, both physically and spiritually.
- Prosperity and Harmony: Devotees believe that worshipping Tulsi Mata brings wealth, happiness, and familial harmony, as she is considered an embodiment of Goddess Lakshmi.
- Environmental Connection: The ritual underscores the Hindu reverence for nature, with Tulsi symbolizing the sanctity of the natural world. Caring for the plant during the Aarti fosters environmental consciousness.
- Devotional Bond: The Aarti strengthens the devotee’s relationship with Lord Vishnu, as Tulsi is his beloved. It is said that offerings to Vishnu are incomplete without Tulsi leaves.
Culturally, the Aarti is a communal activity that brings families together, especially during festivals like Tulsi Vivah, where homes and temples are adorned with lights, rangolis, and festive decorations. The ritual is also believed to aid unmarried individuals in finding suitable partners, as Tulsi Vivah symbolizes marital bliss.
